Navigating Marketing: Insights from Tom Stansfield

In a recent episode of #LincsLivesNatters, we sat down with Tom Stansfield, the founder of Lincolnshire Marketing and Legal Growth, to explore his approach to helping businesses grow. With a background in law and years of hands-on experience, Tom shared insights into what drives his passion for supporting Lincolnshire’s business community.

A Journey from Law to Marketing

Tom didn’t set out to become a marketing professional. As he explained, “I did a law and business degree, and I worked for various companies within Lincolnshire.” However, it wasn’t long before his focus shifted. "My goal was to create a lifestyle business," Tom shared. He initially wanted something sustainable for his family, but demand for his services led him to develop tools that could help more businesses thrive.

The Power of Connection

At the heart of Tom’s work is the Lincolnshire Business Directory, a free tool designed to connect local businesses and make services accessible. “The business directory started as an idea for improving connections between companies,” Tom explained. He emphasised its practical value: “It’s free, which makes it easy for businesses to use, and it builds their SEO naturally."

Despite only using word of mouth to promote the platform, the directory has grown rapidly. “We’ve already got over 70 businesses listed, and it’s still growing,” Tom said. His focus remains on giving small enterprises a digital boost without unnecessary complexity.

Creating Casual Spaces: Beers & Business

In addition to his marketing projects, Tom also organises Beers & Business, a series of relaxed networking events that have quickly become a hit in Lincolnshire. “It’s very informal,” he noted. “It’s an opportunity to sit with a drink, have a conversation, and share ideas without feeling pressured."

Tom believes this approach creates opportunities for genuine collaboration. "It’s about letting conversations flow naturally rather than forcing interactions," he said.

Finally, a Book for People Who Are Sh*t at Marketing

Tom’s upcoming book, Finally, a Book for People Who Are Sh*t at Marketing, captures his straightforward approach to business growth. "It’s aimed at people who are completely out of their depth when it comes to marketing,” Tom shared during the podcast.

He explained the purpose behind the book: “I wanted to break it down into simple steps that anyone could follow, something that takes the stress out of marketing and makes it feel achievable for small business owners.”

The book promises to be an essential tool for businesses that need practical guidance without overwhelming jargon or over-complicated strategies

The Importance of Consistency in Marketing

When asked about common marketing challenges, Tom was clear: consistency matters. “One of the biggest problems I see is businesses not keeping their marketing up to date,” he said. “If you haven’t posted on your socials for years, people might assume your business doesn’t exist anymore.”

Tom encouraged business owners to focus on showing up regularly. “Even if it’s just a small post or update every week, that consistency builds trust,” he said.

A Look at the Future

Beyond the directory and networking events, Tom is exploring new ways to support local businesses. From expanding his marketing services to planning future tools, his work reflects a deep commitment to the community.

“It’s about providing the tools and strategies businesses need to succeed,” Tom explained. Whether it’s helping small firms get started or giving established companies a boost, Tom’s focus is always on making marketing more approachable and effective.

For more insights from Tom Stansfield, including his tips on how to grow a business through marketing and his plans for Lincolnshire Marketing, check out the full episode of #LincsLivesNatters. 

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