Shirley Erwee

Marketing Isn’t Bragging — It’s an Invitation

Discover why young entrepreneurs need to market to attract warm, ready customers (and make selling a breeze.)

Let’s unpack the term marketing.

That word might make you picture corporate buzzwords, flashy ads, or influencers shouting into the void about “limited-time-only deals!” But if you’re a young entrepreneur, trying to grow something real — a side hustle, a small business, a social enterprise — then here’s what you need to know:

Marketing isn’t about shouting louder. It’s about showing up clearly.

In simple terms? Marketing makes selling easier.

It helps the right people find you, get to know you, trust you — and come closer before you ever ask them to buy.

“But I’m not a marketer... I just make cool stuff.”

child with cupcakes

Exactly. And that’s why you need marketing.

You can have the best products in the world — the softest hoodie, the smartest app, the tastiest cupcakes — but if no one knows they exists, what’s the point?

“Making something great is only half the job. Helping people find your products is the other half.”

Marketing is like putting out a welcome mat.

It says,“Hey, if you’ve got this problem or love this kind of thing, I might have something for you.”

You’re not tricking anyone. You’re inviting the right people in.

mother and daughter holding a welcome mat

From Cold Strangers to Warm Supporters

Have you ever tried to sell something to someone who’s never heard of you?

It’s hard work. Like trying to start a campfire with damp wood.
Now think about someone who follows you on social media, loves your posts, and says things like:


“Oh wow! I can’t wait until you restock!”

That’s a warm customer.


They’re already halfway sold, just by how you’ve shown up and shared your story.


Marketing creates those people.

3 Things Great Marketing Does (That Feel Natural)

1. It Tells a Story, Not Just a Price

People don’t just want to buy a candle — they want to know who made it, why it smells like orange and clove, and what mood it creates.

“Facts tell. Stories sell.”

Your marketing should feel like letting someone peek behind the curtain — not just to see your product, but to understand your passion.


2. It Builds Trust Before the Sale

If someone sees your posts, emails, or stall at the market a few times and likes your vibe, they’re already warming up to you. No awkward selling needed.

Some experts say that we  should think of it like dating: Marketing is the small talk, the shared memes, the “getting to know you” phase.
Sales is asking them out — or sealing the deal.


3. It Filters in the Right People

Good marketing attracts people who are already interested. So when you offer your product or service, they’re far more likely to say yes.

“Don’t try to convince the wrong people. Speak clearly to the right ones.”

If you make eco-friendly art kits for kids, your marketing doesn’t need to be loud. It just needs to be seen by parents who care about creativity and sustainability. That’s enough.

So, How Do I Start Marketing?

Start small. Start human.

  • Post behind-the-scenes pics or videos

  • Share a personal story about why you started

  • Ask questions your audience cares about

  • Show the real people behind your product (that’s you!)

  • Give free tips or useful advice related to your product or service

And remember: marketing isn’t a performance. It’s a conversation.

Marketing Is How You Help Before They Buy

Let’s flip the script.

Marketing isn’t spammy.
Marketing isn’t braggy.
Marketing is simply helping people notice, understand, and appreciate what you offer — before they spend a penny.

“When done right, marketing feels like a gift, not a pitch.”

So go ahead — post that reel, tell that story, print that flyer.
You’re not bothering anyone.
You’re making it easier for the right people to say: “This is exactly what I’ve been looking for.”

And that, young entrepreneur, is marketing magic.

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