Marketing Rules Every Small Business Should Know

Marketing Rules FAQ's

because guesswork isn’t a marketing strategy.

At SBC Marketing London, we don’t just “do marketing”—we build systems that multiply your message. Whether you’re a founder juggling everything or a service-based business ready to scale, this guide breaks down the most powerful marketing rules, frameworks, and FAQs—so you can stop winging it and start winning.

From the 1% Rule to the 7-11-4 Framework, we’re unpacking the strategies that separate noise from results. And yes, we use these exact principles in our Done-For-You services—so you don’t have to figure it out alone.

1. How to find businesses that need help

Look for the gaps: inconsistent branding, no clear call to action, outdated websites, or social media that’s all over the place. These are signals that a business is either overwhelmed or under-supported. You’ll find them in local Facebook groups, LinkedIn posts, or even at school fairs and community events. The key? Listen for phrases like “I’m doing it all myself” or “I don’t have time for marketing.” That’s your open door.

2. What is the 1% rule in marketing

Only 1% of your audience creates content. 9% engage. 90% just watch. That means most people are silently observing your brand before they ever like, comment, or buy. So don’t be discouraged by low engagement—be consistent. Your silent audience is watching how you show up, how you speak, and whether you’re worth trusting.

3. How much is marketing for a small business in the UK

Marketing costs vary, but here’s the truth: if you’re spending less than £500/month, you’re likely DIY-ing. Between £500–£2,000/month gets you strategy, content, and execution. Anything above that should include ads, SEO, and analytics. The real question isn’t “how much does it cost?”—it’s “how much is it costing you not to market well?”

4. Can a marketing agency help my small business

Yes—if they understand your goals, your audience, and your voice. A good agency doesn’t just post pretty graphics. They help you clarify your message, build trust with your audience, and turn attention into action. At SBC, we don’t just “do marketing”—we build momentum.

5. What is the 3-3-3 rule in marketing

You’ve got 3 seconds to grab attention, 3 key benefits to communicate, and 3 clear actions to guide the user. This rule is gold for landing pages, reels, and email subject lines. It forces clarity and keeps your message tight.

6. What is the 7 times 7 rule in marketing

People need to hear your message at least 7 times across 7 different channels before they act. That could be Instagram, email, podcast, blog, YouTube, WhatsApp, and in-person. Repetition builds familiarity. Familiarity builds trust. Trust builds sales.

7. What is the 50/30/20 rule in marketing

This content mix keeps your audience engaged:

  • 50% value (tips, how-tos, education)
  • 30% promotion (offers, launches, testimonials)
  • 20% personal (behind-the-scenes, founder stories)
    It’s not just about selling—it’s about building relationship equity.

8. What are the 5 C’s of sales

  • Connection: Build rapport before pitching.
  • Clarity: Make your offer easy to understand.
  • Confidence: Believe in your solution.
  • Conversion: Guide them to a clear next step.
  • Consistency: Follow up, follow through, and stay visible.
    Sales is service with structure.

9. What is the 70/30 rule in marketing

Spend 70% of your time on what’s working—your proven content, offers, and platforms. Use the other 30% to test new ideas, formats, or audiences. This keeps your brand grounded and growing.

10. What is the 70/20/10 rule of marketing

  • 70% = Core content (your main message)
  • 20% = Repurposed (turn blogs into reels, reels into carousels)
  • 10% = Experimental (try a trend, test a new platform)
    This rule helps you stay consistent without burning out.

11. What are the 5 C’s of marketing

  • Company: What’s your unique value?
  • Customers: Who are you serving?
  • Competitors: What are they doing—and missing?
  • Collaborators: Who can amplify your reach?
  • Climate: What’s happening in the market?
    Use this to audit your strategy quarterly.

12. Can a business survive without marketing

Only if it’s a monopoly—or a miracle. Marketing is how people find you, trust you, and choose you. Without it, you’re invisible. And invisible businesses don’t grow.

13. What is the 7-11-4 rule of marketing

Before someone buys, they need:

  • 7 hours of interaction
  • 11 touchpoints
  • 4 platforms
    This is why omnipresence matters. One post won’t cut it. You need a system.

14. What are the 4 rules of marketing

  • Know your audience deeply
  • Speak their language clearly
  • Show up consistently
  • Solve real problems
    These aren’t trends—they’re timeless.
  • 15. What is the 8 second rule in marketing

You’ve got 8 seconds (or less) to stop the scroll. That’s your headline, hook, or visual. If you don’t grab attention fast, you’ve lost them. Lead with emotion, clarity, or curiosity.

16. What is the golden rule of marketing

Serve before you sell. Give value. Build trust. Then invite action. People don’t buy because you’re clever—they buy because you’re clear and consistent.

17. How do I grow my social media account

  • Post consistently (3–5x/week)
  • Use branded, scroll-stopping visuals
  • Engage with your audience (comments, DMs, polls)
  • Collaborate with aligned brands
  • Share behind-the-scenes and real stories
    Growth = visibility + value + vibe.

18. What are the 3Rs of marketing

  • Reach: Get in front of the right people
  • Resonance: Make them feel something
  • Retention: Keep them coming back
    This is how you build a brand, not just a moment.

19. What are the four main marketing strategies

  • Product: What are you offering?
  • Price: Is it positioned right?
  • Place: Where are you showing up?
  • Promotion: How are you getting attention?
    These are the 4Ps—still relevant, still powerful.

20. What are four ways to attract customers

  1. Solve a specific problem: Don’t be generic. Speak directly to the pain points your audience is facing. Clarity converts.
  2. Show social proof: Testimonials, reviews, and case studies build trust faster than any clever slogan. Let others vouch for you.
  3. Offer irresistible value: Whether it’s a bonus, bundle, or bold guarantee—make your offer too good to ignore.
  4. Build community: Create spaces where your audience feels seen—email lists, WhatsApp groups, live events. Connection drives loyalty.

Ready to stop guessing and start growing?

Let SBC Marketing London handle your:

  • Social Media Strategy & Execution
  • SEO & Website Optimisation
  • Paid Ads & Analytics
  • Branding & Messaging

DM us today or book your free discovery call.
Let’s turn your vision into visibility—and your visibility into sales.

#EntrepreneurSupport #CamberwellBusiness #FaithDrivenFounders #RedAndWhiteBranding

Author

💬 WhatsApp Us 🎁 Special Offer
Scroll to Top