What to Expect and Focus On in Your First 18 Months of Business for Visibility and Growth
- Akinyinka Omikunle
- Jun 17
- 2 min read
Starting a business is one thing — but achieving online visibility, building a sustainable brand, and finding what works in marketing takes time.
The first 18 months test not just your offer, but your mindset, consistency, and ability to adapt. This is when most entrepreneurs either build momentum or burn out.
Here’s what to expect — and what to focus on — if you want long-term results, not just early wins.
1. Build Systems to Handle the Emotional Rollercoaster
The journey is unpredictable. You’ll have days when you feel like a genius and others when nothing works.
That’s why sustainability matters more than hype. Whether you're working with a marketing consultant online or building solo, create habits that support long-term visibility. Use tools. Create content in batches. Stay consistent.
2. Let Your Brand Identity Evolve Naturally
You don’t need to perfect your branding ideas right away. In your first year, clarity comes from doing.
Your visuals, tone, and message will shift as you connect more deeply with your audience. Focus on personal branding on LinkedIn, emails, and one core platform before obsessing over colors and fonts.
3. Marketing Is Your Job Now — Not a Side Task
You’re not just a business owner — you’re now a marketer.
To grow, you need to understand marketing strategy types and how to apply them to your niche.
Choose one marketing strategy course or mentor. Learn what works for your audience. Practice. Track results. Share value consistently.
4. Don’t Just Post — Solve a Real Problem
The key to traction early on isn’t flashy design — it’s relevance.
Use your expertise to answer real questions. Focus on value-driven content that addresses your audience's pain points. This is the kind of approach even a strategic coach would recommend.
5. Use Email Marketing, Not Just Social Media
Social media helps with reach, but email builds loyalty.
Learn marketing email tips to turn followers into subscribers and subscribers into clients. Keep it simple. Share insights, not just promotions.
6. Track What Works — Then Double Down

Don’t overthink the dip in likes or views. Look at actual data.
Is your Instagram marketing campaign
converting?
Which LinkedIn posts bring engagement?
What lead magnet works best?
Let numbers guide you — not panic.
7. Your Brand is More Than a Logo — It’s the Promise You Keep
Whether you call it a branding house or a personal mission, your brand should represent real value and transformation.
If you're just starting your marketing strategy website, anchor it in trust, results, and clarity — not complexity.
8. Remember Why You Started
When marketing feels hard (and it will), come back to your mission.
Every expert marketer or coach strategy program will remind you: your why is the fuel for your visibility.
Ready to Grow With Intention?
If you’re serious about building your brand, getting seen, and marketing with strategy — not guesswork —I’m here to support you.
Let’s clarify your message, grow your audience, and position your brand for long-term growth.




Comments