A Guide to Gigital Marketing in Hawaii (Or Anywhere!)

How to make your digital marketing strategy work for your local business

Running a local business no matter where you are is unique. Local businesses tend to be very community-centered and supported. In this article, I will mainly focus on businesses in Hawaii, as that’s where Pueo is located, but the advice here can be used for any local business anywhere.

Digital marketing in Hawaii is unique in that there is still a strong sense of community throughout the islands. Buying local is valued and celebrated, whether you’re in Hilo, Kona, or Honolulu. No matter where you are, you’re part of a bigger story of place, culture, and connection.

In today’s world, however, even local businesses that thrived on word-of-mouth marketing in the past now need a strong digital marketing strategy to survive and thrive. Digital marketing is not necessarily a way to have the brand with the loudest voice but as a way to show up for your customers with transparency. It’s a way for your customers to get to know you, your story, and your why.

This guide is a quick run-down of why digital marketing is important for local businesses in Hawaii. Or anywhere. Let’s keep it simple, short, and to the point!

What is digital Marketing Anyway?

Digital marketing is the art (and science) of promoting your business online. It includes:

Your website
Social media
Email newsletters
Google search results
Online ads
Even your Yelp or Google Business listing

People are already looking for what you have to offer. Digital marketing is making sure your business is one of the first, and best, options they see.

Why Digital marketing for local businesses matters

1. Local customers search online first.

People start searching for “best restaurants near me” or “hair stylist in Hilo” before they even leave their house. You want to make sure your business shows up before they get in the car.

2. Visitors rely on online reviews and maps.

Hawaii’s tourist industry is still going strong. Digital marketing in even fairly small cities like Hilo is important to establish trust and authority before they get on their plane or board their boat.

3. It lets you stay connected with your community.

Social media allows your business to become part of the community. It’s a great way to share updates, show the fun side of your business, spotlight collaborators, celebrate your wins, and just show your journey as you grow as a business.

I really enjoy scrolling through social media and finding a brand that has a great online message that I can get on board with.

What digital marketing tools do you need to get started?

You don’t need a huge budget or even subscriptions when you’re just getting off the ground. Just start with the basics:

1. A clean, mobile-friendly website

Otherwise known as a responsive website design.

Make sure it includes:

Who you are: What is your brand’s message? What are its values?
What you offer: How does what you provide help people? How are you different than your competitors?
Where you’re located: Does your client need to drive to a brick-and-mortar store or are your interactions mostly online?
How to contact or book with you (or a call-to-action): Should clients fill out a form or call you directly? Make sure your directions are clear!

Bonus: Add photos, testimonials, and even videos. Sites with videos tend to show up more frequently in searches than those with only static images.

2. Google Business Profile

This is free and easy to set up. It help you show up in map searches, creates website authority, and gives you control over your hours, locations, and reviews.

3. Social media (choose 1–2 platforms)

I would suggest starting with 1 or 2 platforms, then growing from there. This way, you don’t get too overwhelmed with providing content that is suitable for all the different social media platforms.

Decide if your content is going to be mostly educational, entertaining, or a bit of both. Now is a good time to consider hiring a social media manager if you haven’t already!

4. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

This helps your website show up when people search for what you do. Some low hanging fruit that digital marketers usually make sure are in place first:

Make sure your location is clear on your website.
Writing blog posts is a great way to incorporate keywords that are more likely to show up in search results.
Add alt text and titles to your images.

This is a really, really surface level explanation of what SEO is. There are marketing professionals who specialize in only SEO. If you want to get the most out of your digital marketing and SEO, consider hiring a professional.

5. Email marketing

Think about your email inbox. You probably receive emails from different brands periodically. This is done to keep them in mind even if you’re not ready to buy their product right at that moment.

The average Return on Investment (ROI) for email marketing is $36 for every $1 spent. It’s definitely worth it if done correctly and an important aspect of any digital marketing strategy.

Email marketing in Hawaii is key as well, because many local consumers are buying online rather than in person.

What Makes Hawaiʻi Marketing Different?

Cultural sensitivity matters. One thing I always keep in mind is that the Hawaiian language should never be used as a gimmick. It has great cultural significance to the local people of Hawaii and comes off as fake if used flippantly.
Community over competition. I’ve always loved how local businesses in Hilo (and Hawaii in general) support each other by tagging each other on social media, providing referrals to other businesses they trust, and celebrating each other’s successes.
Slow and steady wins. Growth here isn’t about scaling fast but celebrating each and every win as your business sets down roots.

Final Thoughts from Pueo

At Pueo Creative Studio, we know that local businesses are the heartbeat of our economy. The most successful businesses aren’t the loudest or the flashiest. They are trustworthy, caring, and transparent about what they do.

Digital marketing in Hawaii (or anywhere) is a great way to grow your community online and really get to know your clients and customers. It can help establish brand loyalty and clearly define your values. We’re here to help you take flight, with intention and a clear vision in mind.

Want help getting your business visible online?

We offer brand strategy, content creation, and affordable digital marketing support made just for local businesses.

[CLICK HERE to book a consultation with Pueo by filling out our Contact Form →]