So, you’re interested in supporting local businesses but don’t want to break the bank in the process? Don’t worry, you won’t have to clean out their store or fill your cart to the brim to help locally owned businesses.
Image via @jenniferyoungstudio and @shopberte
Here are five free steps you can take:
- Promote, Promote, Promote. Tell your friends, share with your family, mention to your neighbour, encourage to your co-workers, yell from the rooftop if you really want to. It’s all about word-of-mouth. People close to you will value your opinion and trust in your knowledge of the brand. This kind of marketing is absolutely invaluable to a local company, and absolutely free for you!
- Write A Review. Okay, so you’ve told everyone you know about the business, now where? Leaving a great review on their website, Facebook Page, or Google is a helpful way to share your thoughts with those already interested in the brand.
- Jump on Their Mail List. For you, it may be one email a month, for them it’s a valued part of their database. It’s a great way for the business to offer exclusive discounts and understand their supporters/customers. A win-win.
- Social Media Love. It’s more than chucking a follow their way, this is about engaging with the business, liking their content, commenting on images, and saving posts. This helps significantly with the business’ SEO and algorithms. You can even share your experience with the business on your own social media and mention/tag the business. TIP: When sharing on social media, use the business’ hashtag if possible, smaller businesses may not have a content budget and may end up using your image to help promote their business!
- Direct Support. Being told that you’re doing an amazing job with something that you’ve thrown your heart and soul into is more rewarding than one may be able to share. For this reason, pop into the store or send them a private message letting them know how well they are doing. It’s genuine encouragement that gives these business owners a lift and those warm fuzzies.
Image via @bidgoodco / @cocosprovisions
Overall, it’s less about one purchase you make, and more about creating a lasting recognition of the brand to others. It’s simple, it’s free, and it’s incredibly helpful for the business. Now you know how you can support small businesses, why don’t you practice by sharing this?!