Struggling to Get Engagement on Social Media for your Small Business? Here’s What to Post to Attract More Clients

Ever feel like you’re pouring your heart into an social media post for your small business and it just… disappears?

You’ve crafted the caption, picked the perfect pic, added your hashtags and then nothing. No likes, no comments, no sign anyone saw it (except maybe your mum)

If you’re feeling like Instagram is a waste of time because you're not getting engagement, you’re not alone, and you’re definitely not failing. The issue usually isn’t you it’s your content strategy.

Let’s fix that.

In this guide, I’m breaking down what to post to attract more clients, based on this Instagram post I shared recently. These aren’t fluffy tips, they’re practical, proven, and perfect for UK-based small business owners who are done posting randomly and ready to see real results.

So grab a cuppa, we’re about to turn that engagement around.

Why Engagement Matters (More Than Follower Count)

Before we get into the what to post, let’s quickly chat about why engagement matters so much.

Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook etc prioritise content that sparks interaction, comments, saves, shares, DMs. Not just double-taps.

So, if your content isn’t getting engagement, the platform assumes it’s not valuable (rude, I know)… and shows it to fewer people.

But when you create content your audience actually wants to interact with, the algorithm takes notice, and so do your ideal clients.

What to Post to Get More Social Media Engagement (And More Clients)

Here are 4 simple but powerful content types you can start posting this week to boost engagement and attract the right people.

1. Relatable Content That Makes People Feel Seen

This is the content that gets shared in group chats and bookmarked for later.

Why it works:

People want to connect with businesses that get them. When you post something that makes them go “YES, this is so me,” they’re more likely to engage.

Examples for some businesses you can try:

Wedding Cake designer: "You only cut the cake once… let’s make it one to remember (and actually taste amazing)"

Virtual Assistant: "If your to-do list is starting to look like a novel, it might be time to get some help."

Nutrition Coach for busy mums: "You feed everyone else first, let’s figure out how to nourish you too"

2. Problem → Solution Style Posts

Your ideal client is scrolling with a problem/need/want. Your job? Show them you understand it and have a way forward.

Why it works:

It positions you as the expert and builds trust by being helpful straight away.

Try this format:

Hook: “Struggling with [insert problem]?”

Practical tip: “Instead, try this...”

CTA: “Want more tips like this? DM me the word ‘HELP’.”

3. Real-Life Results (Screenshots, Testimonials, Stories)

Don’t underestimate the power of proof. You don’t need flashy graphics, just real results.

Why it works:

It shows people that what you do actually works, and helps them picture what’s possible for them.

Things you can post:

Screenshots of kind words from a client

A quote or snippet from a recent win

A story behind how you helped someone reach their goal

4. Spicy Opinions & Bold Beliefs

You know that thing you think but aren’t sure you should say online? That’s often exactly what gets engagement.

Why it works:

It positions you as a leader in your niche, sparks conversations, and helps you stand out from all the “meh” content out there.

Examples:

Wedding Cake Designer: "If you’re spending more on chair covers than your cake… we need to talk."

Virtual Assistant: "You don’t need another productivity hack. You need someone to take tasks off your plate."

Nutrition Coach for Busy Mums: "Feeding your kids organic snacks while surviving on toast crusts isn’t the vibe."

Top tip:

These posts work best when they’re honest and backed by experience, don’t rant for the sake of it.

Not Sure Which Format to Use?

If you’re wondering whether to turn these ideas into a Reel, a Story, or a Carousel post, I’ve got you covered.

Check out this blog on choosing the right Instagram format. It breaks down exactly how to pick the best one for your content goal.

Because let’s be real, what you post is important, but how you deliver it makes all the difference too.

Let’s Recap: The 4 Types of Posts That Boost Engagement

Here’s your cheat sheet for what to post this week:

1. Relatable posts – Think “yep, that’s so me” content

2. Problem/Solution posts – Show them you get it (and can help)

3. Real-life results – Share client wins, screenshots, or your own growth

4. Spicy opinions – Say the thing others aren’t saying (and start conversations)

These aren’t just nice-to-haves, they’re the foundation of a small business Instagram strategy that actually converts.

What to Do Next

1. Pick ONE of the content types above

2. Create a post using one of the examples (don’t overthink it)

3. Post it this week, and watch what happens.

Want help building this kind of content consistently? Join me inside the Get Seen Get Sales mentor group. You’ll get weekly guidance, content ideas, and support from a community of business owners who are doing Instagram differently.

And if you found this blog helpful, let’s keep the convo going! DM me on Instagram @amandahughes.uk and tell me which post type you’re trying first!

About Me

👋 Hey, I’m Amanda! Small Business Mentor, Apple Top 30 Podcaster & Amazon #1 Bestselling Author.

I help small business owners like you get seen & get sales on Instagram, without the overwhelm.

With 10+ years of experience running small businesses, I know what it’s like to juggle marketing, sales, and all the things. That’s why I’m obsessed with making Instagram simple, fun, and profitable for business owners just like you.

📩 Grab my FREE 30 Content Prompts here for instant content ideas!

and

📲 Let’s connect on Instagram → @amandahughes.uk