Marketing your business locally is practically synonymous with marketing yourself. Unlike those larger businesses whose customer bases are found online or across the country, the local business does most of its business with the individuals of the community wherein the business is located. Because of that, the business owner is a much more integral figure in promoting brand trust and brand recognition!
The Chamber of Commerce
The local Chamber of Commerce should never be overlooked as an opportunity to promote yourself and your business! Your local Chamber is a collection of local business leaders, such as yourself, and are there to offer support to local business. These are men and women who have in the past or are now facing problems similar to yours, experienced or will experience what you are experiencing and should therefore have lots of good advice to help you grow your business no matter what stage your business is currently occupying.
The Chamber of Commerce is also a socially responsible presence, in that they donate time and money to local charities and schools! Which brings us to our second point:
Local Charities and Schools
Donating time and money to local charities and schools is a great way to not only get your business name in the public eye, but also to get your own name recognized. Since local marketing is about self marketing, getting your name associated with publicly supported organizations is a great way to let the community know you’re involved!
Get Involved with the Local Community
There are a plethora of ways to accomplish this, from taking a leadership role in a local church to coaching a sports team. You could volunteer for your local chapter of the Boy and Girl Scouts as well as helping to revitalize a less financially rich part of town. You could organize the building of a park, remodel an existing park, or simply organize a group to clean the trash out of current community projects.
For as little as pennies or minutes a day, you can both help your community AND your business! As with all marketing investments you should be tracking how much return you receive on your investment, but I am confident that once you begin helping your community, you will see more than adequate reason to continue!
As with anything else in business, this can not be approached in a lackadaisical manner. At least, not if it’s going to be successful. So roll up your sleeves, put in the work and reap the fulfilling results!
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