The Ultimate Guide to Social Media Marketing for Newcastle Businesses
From the buzz of the Grainger Market to the independent shops in Jesmond, Newcastle is powered by brilliant local businesses. You’ve perfected your craft, you offer incredible service, and you know this city inside and out.
But when it comes to social media, it can feel like a different world. You know you need to be there, but with so many platforms and so little time, where do you even start?
This is your simple, no-nonsense guide to social media marketing in Newcastle, designed specifically for busy small business owners.
Why Bother? The Power of Hyper-Local Social Media
Before we get into the "how," let's be clear on the "why." For a Newcastle business, an effective social media presence isn't just about getting likes; it's about:
Reaching the Geordie Audience: Connect directly with thousands of potential customers right here in the North East.
Building Local Trust: Show the faces and stories behind your business, turning followers into loyal local customers.
Driving Real Footfall: Use your online presence to get people through your actual, physical door.
Step 1: Choose Your Battlefield – Where Are Your Newcastle Customers?
The biggest mistake local businesses make is trying to be everywhere at once. You don't need five social media accounts; you need one or two that you can manage brilliantly.
For Visual Businesses (Cafes, Shops, Restaurants, Artists): Instagram is your non-negotiable. Newcastle has a thriving foodie and creative scene. High-quality photos and engaging Reels of your products will perform incredibly well here.
For Community-Focused Businesses (Services, Trades, B2B): Facebook is still a powerhouse. It's perfect for building a community, sharing detailed updates, and connecting with local Facebook Groups (like the Heaton community page or local business networks).
For Professional Services (Accountants, Consultants, Agencies like us!): LinkedIn is your go-to. It’s the platform for building professional credibility and connecting with other business owners in the region.
The Golden Rule: Start with ONE platform. Master it, build a following, and only then consider adding a second.
Step 2: What on Earth Do I Post? The 3 "E"s of Local Content
Staring at a blank screen? Here’s a simple framework for content that works in Newcastle.
Educate: Share your expertise. A baker can share a quick tip on bread-making. A plumber can explain how to prevent frozen pipes in winter. This builds authority.
Engage: Talk about our city! Ask questions like, "What's your favourite spot on the Quayside?" or share a photo of your team at a local event. Use local hashtags like
#NEbusiness,#NewcastleUponTyne, and#ShopLocalNewcastle.Excite: This is your showcase. Post stunning photos of your products, showcase a 5-star customer review, or film a quick behind-the-scenes video. This is where you make people want what you have.
Step 3: A Simple 30-Minute Weekly Plan to Get Started
Feeling overwhelmed? Here's a manageable weekly routine:
Monday (10 mins): Plan your 2-3 posts for the week. What will you talk about?
Wednesday (15 mins): Create the posts. Take the photos, write the captions, and use a free tool like Meta Business Suite to schedule them to go out automatically.
Friday (5 mins): Engage! Spend five minutes replying to comments and messages.
Consistency beats intensity every time. Three great posts a week is far better than seven rushed ones.
You Don't Have to Do It Alone
Running a business is hard work. You're the expert at what you do, but you don't have to be an expert at marketing, too. An effective social media presence can be the difference between just surviving and truly thriving in a competitive city like Newcastle.
Feeling overwhelmed? That's why we're here. AdToast is a local agency dedicated to helping Newcastle businesses like yours shine online. Contact us for a free, friendly, no-obligation chat about your social media.
