You might not think that your actions make a difference, but they do. There are many ways you can support the growth of local businesses by buying their products, giving back, and spreading the word about them. Here are eight easy things you can do to show your love for these small businesses in your community:
1. Share your love of local businesses with your friends
Share your favorite small, local business on social media with a short message about why you like it. This gives others a chance to support the business, too. It also spreads awareness about their existence and could encourage other people to visit.
Plus, posting about them on social media counts as free publicity, which they’ll appreciate. If they have a product that you can’t live without, you can also share your reviews of it so that more people can learn about their products and services.
2. Shop at local stores in the community
If you need something, check out your local businesses first before turning to bigger chains or websites. You might find that they have what you need for a cheaper price than online options.
The small businesses will appreciate your business, and in return, they’ll likely have sales or promotions for you. They might even have perks for loyal customers.
3. Turn to local businesses when you need a service done
Whether it’s plumbing, pest control, lawn care, or house cleaning services, there are probably at least a few local businesses that can help you out. This is convenient, but it’s usually less expensive than hiring a company for services like this.
So, make sure to find residential plumbing services if there’s something wrong with your toilets. Or if you want to replace your plumbing fixtures with more water-efficient ones, then calling professional plumbers is the way to go.
4. Give back to small, local business owners
If a small business owner needs a hand, whether it’s with marketing, graphic design, or social media, then you could offer them your services. In return, they’ll likely give you a discount on their products or refer customers to you if they grow big enough.
For example, if a restaurant needs help with getting more customers, you could promote them on social media. In return, they’ll share your business with their following and give you a discount at their establishment.
5. Donate or chip in money when small businesses need it
If a small business owner is struggling financially, you can help them out. One easy way to do this is by donating to them or giving them some money. This ensures that they’ll stay afloat, and you’ll be supporting free enterprise in your community.
6. Shop at farmers’ markets for fresh, local produce
There are other ways to support small businesses besides shopping at their storefronts. One of these ways is to find a farmers’ market in your area and buy fruits, vegetables, and other healthy food items from them.
This is great for you because it means you’ll get fresh produce at a discounted price while also helping small, local businesses grow. Plus, the money you spend will likely go back into the community through taxes or other financial contributions.
7. Participate in local festivals and community events
You should go out to support your local businesses, but you should also make a point to participate in the different events. These might include free concerts or holiday-themed activities around Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
This gives you more opportunities to have fun with the family while also showing your support for small, local businesses. Local festivals are a great place to mingle with potential customers and spread awareness about your business as well.
8. Try every restaurant at least once
If you live in a big city, then chances are there’s more than one restaurant to choose from. You should try all of them out at least once and make your way through the entire list. Why? Because this allows you to support small restaurants locally instead of spending your money on less-expensive items that big chains offer.
And when you go to a restaurant, make sure to leave them good reviews on places like TripAdvisor and Yelp. This will help the small businesses grow, and in return, they’ll be more likely to give you discounts or refer customers to your business.
Small, local businesses are an important part of the community. They’re frequently more personable and offer things that bigger companies do not, such as unique products for sale or personalized services. So, if you have the option of supporting the local businesses in your community, you should take it.
