How to Market on r/smallbusiness
A community for small business owners to ask questions, share experiences, and support each other.
r/smallbusiness Rules & Self-Promotion Policy
Understanding the rules is critical for successful marketing. Here's what you need to know about r/smallbusiness.
Strict Self-Promotion Policy
This subreddit has strict rules against self-promotion. Product mentions should be rare and only when genuinely helpful.
Community Rules
- 1No spam or self-promotion
- 2Be helpful and respectful
- 3No surveys or research requests
- 4No affiliate links
How to Write for r/smallbusiness
Practical and empathetic. Avoid tech jargon. Focus on real-world implementation. Many members are stressed and looking for support.
Best Practices for r/smallbusiness
Maximize your impact by understanding when, what, and how to post.
Best Times to Post
- Weekday Morning Est
- Sunday Evening Est
Posts stay relevant for about 8-12 hours
Content That Works
- Specific operational questions
- Employee management challenges
- Local business strategies
- Financial management tips
Common Flairs
Who's Here
Traditional small business owners: restaurants, retail, services, contractors. Less tech-savvy than startup communities. Values practical, proven approaches.
Common Mistakes on r/smallbusiness
Avoid these pitfalls that get marketers banned or ignored.
Offering services or products in replies
The community is wary of people fishing for clients. Even helpful suggestions with service mentions get downvoted.
Instead
Share advice freely without mentioning your business. If asked directly about your services, suggest they DM you.
Assuming tech solutions for every problem
Many small businesses have limited tech budgets and capabilities.
Instead
Offer multiple solutions at different complexity levels. A spreadsheet might be more helpful than SaaS recommendation.
Dismissing "old school" business approaches
The community includes successful traditional businesses that predate the internet.
Instead
Respect different business models. What works online doesn't always translate to local service businesses.
Post Formats That Work on r/smallbusiness
These content formats consistently perform well in this community.
Specific Question
Example Format
""How do you handle [specific situation] in your [business type]?" with context about your situation."
Why It Works
Specific questions get specific, actionable answers from experienced owners.
Lessons Learned
Example Format
""After X years in [industry], here's what I wish I knew starting out" with practical, specific tips."
Why It Works
Experience-based wisdom is valued. Practical tips are bookmarked and shared.
Challenge Discussion
Example Format
""Anyone else dealing with [current business challenge]? How are you handling it?""
Why It Works
Creates community discussion. Shared challenges build connection.
Related Communities & Use Cases
Expand your reach with similar subreddits and see who uses r/smallbusiness for marketing.
Similar Subreddits
Who Should Target r/smallbusiness
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about marketing on r/smallbusiness
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