Last Updated on February 9, 2026
or: Online Marketing with Only 5 Ingredients
Before You Start: One Question That Matters
“What happens if we do nothing?” If the answer is “we’re fine” – you probably don’t need marketing right now. If the answer is “we disappear” – keep reading.
This article offers simple, free marketing advice for small businesses & nonprofits – no jargon, no budget required.
Most online marketing advice sounds like a recipe with 47 ingredients you don’t have and three appliances you can’t afford.
This isn’t that.
Like Marks & Spencer’s “Only Ingredients” range – which offers baked beans with just 3 ingredients instead of 20 – this guide strips marketing back to what actually works.
No buzzwords. No paid tools. No “growth hacks.”
Just the essentials that get results.
When you are done with this article, check out even more free tips:
Ingredient 1: One Clear Message
If people don’t understand what you do in 5 seconds, they won’t stay.
Ask yourself:
- Who is this for?
- What problem do we solve?
- Why should someone care?
✓ Quick win: Write one short sentence you can use everywhere (website, social media bio, email signature).
Example: ❌ “Welcome to our innovative solutions” ✓ “Affordable community art classes in Dortmund”
Ingredient 2: A Place You Control
Social media is useful – but it’s not yours. Platforms change algorithms. They shut down. They’re rented space.
You need one simple home base:
- A basic website
- Or even a single-page site
What matters:
- Clear description
- Contact details
- One clear action (donate, book, sign up, visit)
✓ Quick win: Free tools include WordPress.com, Google Sites, Carrd, Notion. Not sure? Test this: Can someone find you in under 30 seconds?
Ingredient 3: Consistency Over Creativity
You don’t need viral ideas. You need to show up regularly.
Choose one platform:
- Instagram or
- Facebook or
Post:
- Once or twice a week
- Same day, same tone
- Same platform
✓ Quick win: Helpful beats clever every time.
Ingredient 4: Real Stories, Not Marketing Talk
People trust people, not slogans.
Share:
- Why you started
- Who you help
- Small wins and real moments
- Honest challenges (authenticity includes struggles)
For nonprofits: Show impact, even if it’s small. For small businesses: Show the human behind the brand.
✓ Quick win: Simple format = Problem → Action → Result
Ingredient 5: Be Findable When People Search
You don’t need to pay Google to exist.
Basic SEO:
- Use clear page titles (what you actually do)
- Mention your location if you’re local
- Answer common questions on your site
Page Title Examples: ❌ “Welcome” ✓ “Our Saturday Barista Classes in Munich AltStadt”
Quick win: Think about what someone types when they need you. Use those words.
Final Thought
Good online marketing is like good food: simple, honest, made from real ingredients.
No ultra-processed jargon. No expensive tools you’ll never use. Just the essentials that work.
Start with these. Add more only when you actually need them.
Want Help With This?
Need more? Contact me for workshops, coaching, monthly plans, or just a free 15-minute call to talk through what your organization actually needs.
