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There has been an exciting development in recent years that has seen a change in focus for startups and new businesses. These days, global domination or large scale deployment is almost always on every entrepreneur’s wishlist -and it’s not hard to see why. After all, it’s never been easier to access markets across an entire country – or continent – thanks to the Internet.
However, entrepreneurs who only have eyes for the rest of the world are missing a trick with their local communities. And the truth is that becoming a cornerstone business in your local area brings plenty of benefits. Customers tend to be loyal, and it provides a fantastic foundation and stability for further success in the future. With this in mind, here are some suggestions for you to turn your business into a cornerstone of your local community.
Go hyperlocal
Think about your business’s location and the people that live there. Are you doing everything you can to attract and retain their custom? Everything, from the design of your storefront to your online marketing, can be geared towards serving your local market. Facebook ads, social selling, and even LinkedIn can be used to develop your local presence online, and traditional marketing techniques such as flyer posting, brochures, and leaflet drops can encourage people towards your business.
Develop relationships with other businesses
There will be many other companies in your area, and each presents an opportunity for you to utilize. Attend local business events and start getting your name out there as a reputable, friendly enterprise that takes the time to find out about their neighbor. You never know when a chance meeting could lead to significant opportunities, and you may even strike up relationships with complementary businesses to your own. It could result in future partnerships, opportunities to enter a new market, and much more.
Host events
If there are few local business events in your area, why not start one? Or, why not create special events for your customers? Assuming your events are popular and fruitful, you will soon be seen as someone who means business – and your reputation will soar. Keep things local, and invite other independent businesses along for the ride. Again, it’s a great chance to develop strong ties with customers old and new, as well as other influential business people in your locale.
Community support and charities
All communities have people in need, and as a business owner, you have an opportunity to help out. Attend charitable events – or host them. Not only is it a great way to improve your reputation, but charitable events are also great places to meet new prospects. Yes, it can cost you a little money, but with planning and preparation, it’s easy to turn this cost into an investment.
Shout it out
Can your voice contribute towards a better, happier community? If you have something to say about local affairs, shout it out loud and proud, via local media outlets or your blog. It shouldn’t take you too long to start getting recognition as a trustworthy, caring business that is an integral part of the community.
