Corporate social media platforms weren’t built for small businesses, artists, or activists—they were built to extract profit from your labor. Algorithm changes make visibility a privilege, shadowbans silence marginalized voices, and pay-to-play ads funnel money into billionaires’ pockets. As we have recently seen, arbitrary rules can change quickly or entire platforms can be restricted.
But we don’t have to rely on them. Here are five ways to market your work without feeding Big Tech.
1. SEO & Blogging: Own Your Content, Control Your Space ✊
Social media can delete your posts, restrict your reach, or shut down your page overnight. A website, however, is yours. Learning SEO (search engine optimization) helps your site rank higher on Google so people can find you without an algorithm deciding your worth. I’ll write more about SEO strategies in the future. Blogging creates content that keeps working for you, instead of disappearing into the void after 24 hours.
2. Email Marketing: No Algorithms, Just Direct Connection 📧
Email lists cut out the middleman, letting you communicate directly with your community. No ads, no data tracking—just people choosing to stay connected. Unlike social media, your email list belongs to you, not a billionaire tech CEO. You can create a sign-up form on your site in exchange for a freebie or discount that collects email addresses. Then use the email list to send out regular updates.
3. Collaborations & Mutual Aid: Collective Growth Over Competition 🤝
Capitalism teaches us to compete, but we grow stronger together. Whether it’s cross-promoting with other small businesses, guest blogging, or working within community-driven platforms like cooperatives, mutual support builds power outside of corporate control.
4. Community Organizing & Events: Real-World Connections Matter 🌍
Social media can’t replace real relationships. Hosting workshops, joining local events, and engaging in grassroots movements build lasting trust and loyalty. Whether it’s an online forum, a community zine, or an in-person pop-up, spaces outside of social media are where real connections thrive. What does that look like for your venture?
5. Referral & Cooperative Networks: People Over Profit 🎟
Word-of-mouth marketing isn’t just free—it’s built on trust. Referral discounts, community barter systems, and worker-led cooperatives help redistribute resources instead of funneling them to ad platforms. When we support each other, we build sustainable networks that don’t rely on capitalist gatekeepers.
Final Thoughts: Reclaim Your Online Presence
We don’t have to beg for visibility on platforms that weren’t made for us. By investing in alternative marketing strategies, we take back control of how we connect, share, and thrive.
🚀 Need a website that reflects your values and gives you real ownership over your digital presence? Let’s build something that works for you, not the algorithm. Get in touch today!