What I have learned building brands, websites and campaigns for small businesses across Macomb County and Southeast Michigan — written for the person running the business, not for other marketers.
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Newest first. Most of it answers a question a client actually asked me.
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Red Flags When Hiring a Marketing Agency (And How to Avoid Getting Burned)
Before you hire a marketing agency, you need to know what to watch out for. Jonathan Petrous shares the six biggest red flags — including the commission problem most small businesses don't know about.
What Can a Marketing Agency Do That You Can't Do Yourself?
You can handle some of your own marketing — but there are real things a professional agency brings that you simply can't replicate on your own. Jonathan Petrous explains exactly what those are.
How to Use Video Without a Big Budget or a Film Crew
You don't need a film crew or a big budget to produce effective business video. Jonathan Petrous shares the low-cost setup, the common mistakes, and the smartest way to get started.
The St. Clair County Business Owner's Guide to Getting Found Online
St. Clair County customers want to hire local — but they have to find you first. Jonathan Petrous shares a step-by-step guide to getting your local business visible online in this community market.
What's the Difference Between Organic and Paid Social Media?
Organic and paid social media are not the same thing — and mixing them up leads to wasted budget and missed opportunities. Jonathan Petrous explains the difference and when to use each.
What Videos Does Every Small Business Actually Need?
Not sure which videos your small business actually needs? Jonathan Petrous cuts through the noise with a practical guide to the videos that genuinely drive leads, build trust, and support your sales process.
Can Video Marketing Actually Help Your Small Business Grow?
Video marketing isn't just for big brands with big budgets. Jonathan Petrous explains how small businesses can use video to build trust faster, convert more leads, and stand out from competitors.
Why Metro Detroit Small Businesses Need Local SEO More Than Anyone
Metro Detroit is one of the most competitive small business markets in the Midwest. Jonathan Petrous explains why local SEO is how independent businesses survive — and beat the franchises.
SEO vs. Paid Ads: Where Should Your Small Business Spend First?
SEO and paid advertising both have a place in small business marketing — but the right order matters. Jonathan Petrous explains when to prioritize each one and how to use both together for compounding results.
The year-end letter: the AI cold-calling system that never earned its keep, two client relationships that ended cleanly, the pricing lesson in staying with long-term clients, and what actually grew the business this year.
How Long Does SEO Actually Take to Work? Setting Real Expectations
SEO takes time — and most businesses give up right before it starts working. Jonathan Petrous sets realistic expectations with a month-by-month timeline and explains what actually determines how fast you see results.
What Is a Marketing Funnel? (And Does Your Small Business Actually Need One?)
"Marketing funnel" sounds complicated but the concept is simple — and you already have one. Jonathan Petrous explains what it actually means and whether your small business needs to think about it.
