When you’re wearing every hat in your business, your tools matter. But that doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune to market yourself well.
In 2025, there are more free (and powerful) marketing tools than ever to help execute your strategy. The key? Knowing which ones actually help and how to use them with intention.
This list includes six tried-and-true platforms that simplify content, boost visibility, and bring structure to your strategy. Plus one bonus! If you’re a DIYer, these are for you.
1. Google Analytics
Track what’s working. Ignore what’s not.
Google Analytics shows you how people are using your website. It tells you:
- Which pages get the most visits
- Where traffic is coming from (social, search, direct, etc.)
- What actions people are taking (or not taking)
You don’t need to be a data nerd to get value from it. Just check once a month to see what content is pulling its weight and what might need a refresh.
Pro Tip: Connect it with Google Search Console to get the full picture.
2. Google Search Console
Which leads to number two. Understand what your customers are Googling and how that relates to your business.
Search Console helps you:
- See which keywords are driving traffic to your site
- Monitor site health and indexing issues
- Submit new pages to be crawled by Google faster
It’s a must-have for local businesses that want to show up when people search for services in their area.
3. Google Business Profile
If you want to get found on Google Maps or in local search results, this is your starting point. When someone searches for your business or even just your services in your area, your Google Business Profile is often what shows up first.
To make the most of it, be sure to:
- Add high-quality, up-to-date photos
- Keep your hours, contact info, and services current
- Fill out the “Services” section (yes, even if you don’t sell products)
- Actively collect and respond to customer reviews
Use the “Posts” feature to share announcements, special offers, or your latest blog post. It shows Google that you’re active and keeps your profile fresh for potential customers.
4. Pexels & Unsplash
Two free websites that offer free, high-quality visuals that don’t feel like stock photos.
Need a background image for your blog, social post, or website? Pexels and Unsplash are full of royalty-free, professional photography you can use without credit (though credit is always appreciated).
Great for:
- Blog featured images
- Backgrounds for social media visuals
- Website graphics when you don’t have custom brand photos yet
5. CapCut
CapCut provides simple, powerful video editing on your phone or desktop.
CapCut is TikTok’s free editing tool, but you don’t need to be an influencer to use it. It’s great for:
- Trimming and captioning short-form videos
- Adding music, transitions, or voiceovers
- Making Reels that look polished without hiring a pro
Try adding the auto-captions feature, which saves time and improves accessibility when you share video content.
6. ChatGPT
You’ve probably already used this one, but with AI on the rise, now is the time to start learning if you don’t already incorporate ChatGPT or a similar tool in your marketing arsenal.
Yes, ChatGPT can help you:
- Draft Instagram captions
- Write blog outlines
- Brainstorm email subject lines
But here’s the key: Don’t take the first thing it gives you. Use it as a starting point, not a final draft. Develop your brand voice first. Then prompt the tool with specific language, tone, and goals. Refine from there.
Try prompts like:
- “Write a fun, informal Instagram caption about preparing your house for fall—from a painter’s perspective.”
- “List 5 subject lines for an email announcing a new small-batch coffee blend that coffee snobs would want to open.”
Think of it as a collaborator, not a replacement.
Bonus: Launch Kits (When You’re Ready to Level Up)
It is not free, but it is absolutely worth it if your website needs a reset. Launch Kits builds fast, clean, affordable, SEO-optimized websites for service-based businesses that need to look legit and get found.
You get:
- Custom site design based on real SEO strategy
- Quick turnaround (often within 5 days)
- Ongoing support and tools to edit on your own
If your site is outdated, clunky, or just not working, start here.
Leverage Tools. Don’t Let Them Use You.
The best marketing tools are the ones that make your life easier. Not more complicated. Pick 2-3 from this list to start. Use them consistently. And remember: Strategy always comes first. Tools just help you carry it out. For more on strategy, check out this recent blog.
Want help picking the right ones for your goals? Let’s build a plan together.
