Jalna, November 12 — When people in Jalna look for a doctor, a coaching class, a sweet shop or a mobile repair store today, most of them start on their phone. A small business that is easy to find online, answers quickly and looks trustworthy wins those customers. The good news: most of the tools that help small businesses get customers online are free.
7 steps to get more customers online
1. Set up a free Google Business Profile
This is the listing that appears on Google Search and Google Maps when someone searches for “clinic near me” or “hardware shop Jalna”. Add your correct address, phone number, opening hours, photos of your shop and the services you offer. Keep the hours updated on festivals and holidays.
2. Use the WhatsApp Business app
The free WhatsApp Business app lets you show a business profile, a product catalogue, quick replies and a greeting message. Customers who can message you directly are more likely to buy, especially for orders, appointments and price enquiries.
3. Register on Udyam — it is free
Udyam registration gives your business official MSME recognition, which helps with bank loans and government schemes. Register only on the official portal, udyamregistration.gov.in. The portal itself warns users to beware of fake sites and states that registration is free of cost and paperless. Do not pay any website or agent for the registration itself.
4. Ask happy customers for honest reviews
Reviews on your Google profile build trust faster than any advertisement. Politely ask satisfied customers to leave a review, and reply to every review, good or bad, in a calm and helpful way. Never buy fake reviews; they damage trust and can get your listing penalised.
5. Post real photos and short videos
Photos of your shop, new stock, your team at work or a finished job tell customers what to expect. A 20–30 second video on Instagram, Facebook or WhatsApp Status showing a new product or a festival offer often reaches more local people than a printed pamphlet.
6. Make payment easy
Display a UPI QR code at the counter and share it on WhatsApp for advance bookings. Give a proper bill for every sale. Simple, transparent payments make customers comfortable coming back.
7. Get your story told in local media
A news feature about your business, a new branch, an award or your expert advice gives customers a reason to trust you and a link they can share. NewsNation Online’s Business Spotlight and Expert Talk sections feature businesses and professionals from Jalna and Marathwada. To be featured or to advertise, see our media kit.
Quick checklist
- Google Business Profile with correct hours and photos
- WhatsApp Business profile and catalogue
- Udyam registration on the official portal
- At least one new photo or video every week
- Reply to every review and message within a day
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a website to get customers online?
Not at the start. A complete Google Business Profile and an active WhatsApp Business account are enough for most local shops and services. A website helps later, when you want to show more products or take bookings.
Is Udyam registration really free?
Yes. Registration on the official government portal, udyamregistration.gov.in, has no fee. Be careful of look-alike websites that charge money.
How can my business be featured on NewsNation Online?
Message us on WhatsApp at +91 80100 37985 or see our Advertise page.
More stories: Business · Jalna News
Report: Imran Siddiqui, Jalna
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