Years ago, if you wanted to promote your shop or business, you would print posters, give ads in newspapers, or put up a banner on the roadside. Loudspeakers at market junctions and radio ads were common. This was called traditional marketing.
But today, times have changed. People now spend more time on mobile phones than reading newspapers or watching TV. That’s where digital marketing comes in.
Let’s understand both in straightforward words.
What is Traditional Marketing?
Traditional marketing is the old style of advertising. You see posters on walls, banners on roads, newspaper ads, and maybe hear ads on the radio or through loudspeakers in an auto. These are all traditional methods.
This method still works in some places, but it has some problems:
- It is costly. Printing and TV ads need more money.
- You cannot say who saw your ad or how many people came because of it.
- It is difficult to reach the right people. For example, someone in Malappuram may see a poster for a Kozhikode biriyani shop — but it’s no use to him.
- Most young people don’t look at posters or listen to the radio. They are on their phones.
What is Digital Marketing?
Digital marketing means promoting your business through mobile phones, the internet, and social media. For example:
- Sending WhatsApp messages about offers
- Posting reels or videos on Instagram or Facebook
- Showing ads on YouTube
- Creating a Google Business profile so people can find your shop when they search “near me”
Now, even small businesses in Kozhikode — like tailoring shops, food stalls, tuition classes, or homemade snacks — are using digital marketing.
This method is easy, cheap, and works fast.
Why Digital Marketing is Better Today
- You can spend less money and still reach more people.
- You can target only the people you want, like people living near your shop.
- You can check how many people saw your ad, liked it, shared it, or messaged you.
- You don’t need to be big or rich. Even with just a mobile phone, you can start.
Simple Example
Let’s say you have a biriyani shop in Kozhikode town.
If you print a flex board and put it near the bus stand, 1,000 people may see it. But only a few may be interested.
Now, imagine you post a reel of your steaming biriyani on Facebook or Instagram and show it only to people in Kozhikode city. That reel may reach 500 real food lovers. Many will message or come to your shop.
This is the power of digital.
How to Start Digital Marketing for Your Business
You don’t need to speak English well or be a tech expert. Just follow these basic steps:
- Create a Facebook Page – Put your shop name, photos, and offers.
- Use WhatsApp Business – Send updates to your customers directly.
- Make a Google Business Profile – People searching “bakery near me” or “tailoring near me” can find you.
- Post photos and small videos (reels) – Show your food, service, or happy customers. Keep it natural and simple.
- Reply quickly – When people message, answer fast. This builds trust.
Stories from Kozhikode Locals
Shameena from Mankavu runs a small tailoring unit. She started posting reels on Instagram. In two weeks, 20 new customers found her.
Niyas from Beypore makes homemade snacks. He shared his items on WhatsApp and Facebook. Now people from other parts of Kozhikode call and order from him.
These are real people, just like you. No big team. No big money. Just mobile, internet, and a little effort.
So, What Should You Choose?
If you can afford both methods, use both. But if your budget is small and your customers are using smartphones, then start with digital marketing.
Even one good photo or video can bring 10 new customers. That’s better than a poster seen by 1000 people who may never come.
Final Words
Marketing is not just for big companies. It’s for everyone — even a tea shop, a beauty parlour, or someone selling pickles from home.
You don’t need fancy English. You don’t need to hire a marketing agency. You just need:
- A phone
- Internet
- A bit of interest to learn and try
Start small. Be consistent. Your business will grow step by step..