10 Tips for Supporting Local Businesses in Your Community
Supporting local businesses is more than just a feel-good activity; it's an investment in your community's economic health and vibrancy. When you choose to spend your money locally, you're directly contributing to job creation, community development, and the preservation of unique local character. Here are ten practical tips to help you actively support local businesses and make a real difference.
1. Shop Local Whenever Possible
This might seem obvious, but consciously choosing local shops over large chain stores is the most direct way to support your community. Before heading to a big-box retailer, ask yourself if you can find the same product or service at a local business.
Consider Your Needs
Think about your everyday needs – groceries, clothing, gifts, home repairs – and identify local businesses that can meet those needs. You might be surprised at the variety and quality of goods and services available right in your neighbourhood. For example, instead of buying your coffee from a national chain, try a local café. Instead of ordering books online from a major retailer, check out your local bookstore. These small changes can add up to a significant impact.
Embrace the Unique Offerings
Local businesses often offer unique products and services that you won't find anywhere else. They might specialise in handmade goods, locally sourced ingredients, or personalised customer service. Embrace these unique offerings and enjoy the distinct character they bring to your community.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming local is more expensive: While this can sometimes be true, it's not always the case. Compare prices and consider the added value of supporting a local business.
Forgetting about convenience: It's easy to default to familiar chains, but take the time to explore local options and find businesses that offer the convenience you need.
2. Leave Positive Reviews Online
In today's digital age, online reviews are crucial for businesses. A positive review can attract new customers and boost a business's reputation. Taking a few minutes to share your positive experiences can make a big difference, especially for small businesses that rely on word-of-mouth marketing.
Where to Leave Reviews
Google: Google Reviews are highly visible and influential.
Yelp: Yelp is a popular platform for discovering local businesses.
Facebook: Many businesses have Facebook pages where customers can leave reviews.
Industry-specific websites: Depending on the type of business, there may be industry-specific review sites (e.g., TripAdvisor for restaurants and hotels).
What to Include in Your Review
Be specific and genuine in your review. Mention what you liked about the product or service, the staff, and the overall experience. Include details that will be helpful to other potential customers. For example, "I had a fantastic experience at [Local Cafe Name]. The coffee was delicious, the staff were friendly, and the atmosphere was cosy. I highly recommend their almond croissants!"
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Writing vague or generic reviews: Be specific and provide details to make your review more helpful.
Leaving a negative review without contacting the business first: If you have a complaint, try to resolve it directly with the business before posting a negative review online.
3. Attend Local Events and Festivals
Local events and festivals are a great way to support local businesses and connect with your community. These events often feature local vendors, artisans, and performers, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and reach new customers. Plus, they're a lot of fun!
Types of Local Events
Farmers' markets: A great place to buy fresh, locally grown produce and support local farmers.
Craft fairs: Discover unique, handmade goods from local artisans.
Music festivals: Enjoy live music from local bands and musicians.
Food festivals: Sample delicious food from local restaurants and food vendors.
Community festivals: Celebrate your community's culture and heritage.
How to Support Local Businesses at Events
Shop at local vendor stalls: Buy goods and services directly from local businesses.
Eat at local food vendors: Support local restaurants and food trucks.
Attend local performances: Enjoy live music, theatre, and dance performances by local artists.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Only attending free events: While free events are great, consider supporting ticketed events that directly benefit local artists and organisations.
Not exploring all the vendors: Take the time to browse all the stalls and discover new local businesses.
4. Spread the Word to Friends and Family
Word-of-mouth marketing is incredibly powerful, especially for local businesses. Share your positive experiences with friends and family and encourage them to support local businesses as well. This can be as simple as recommending a local restaurant, sharing a business's social media post, or telling a friend about a great product you found at a local shop.
How to Spread the Word
Talk about your favourite local businesses: Share your positive experiences with friends, family, and colleagues.
Share social media posts: Like, comment on, and share posts from local businesses on social media.
Write reviews: As mentioned earlier, online reviews are a great way to spread the word.
Give recommendations: When someone asks for a recommendation, suggest a local business.
Example Scenario
Imagine a friend is looking for a caterer for an upcoming party. Instead of recommending a large national chain, suggest a local catering company that you've had a positive experience with. This simple recommendation can make a big difference to the local business.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming everyone knows about local businesses: Many people are unaware of the local options available to them.
Not being specific in your recommendations: Provide details about why you recommend a particular business.
5. Engage with Businesses on Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for businesses to connect with their customers and promote their products and services. Engaging with local businesses on social media – by liking their posts, commenting, and sharing their content – can help them reach a wider audience and build their brand awareness. Consider following Localway on social media to stay up to date with local business news.
Ways to Engage on Social Media
Follow local businesses: Stay up-to-date on their latest news and promotions.
Like and comment on posts: Show your support and help increase their visibility.
Share their content: Help them reach a wider audience.
Participate in contests and giveaways: Engage with their brand and potentially win prizes.
Why It Matters
Social media engagement helps local businesses increase their visibility, attract new customers, and build relationships with their existing customers. It's a simple way to show your support and contribute to their success. You can learn more about Localway and how we support local businesses.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Only engaging with businesses you already know: Take the time to discover new local businesses on social media.
Not being genuine in your engagement: Be authentic and show your genuine support.
6. Consider Gift Cards from Local Shops
Gift cards from local shops make great presents for friends and family, and they're a fantastic way to support local businesses. By purchasing a gift card, you're providing the business with immediate revenue and encouraging the recipient to spend their money locally. This is especially helpful during slower periods, such as after the holiday season.
Benefits of Local Gift Cards
Supports local businesses: Provides them with immediate revenue.
Encourages local spending: Ensures that the money stays within the community.
Makes a thoughtful gift: Shows that you care about supporting local businesses.
Where to Buy Gift Cards
Directly from the business: Many local businesses sell gift cards in-store or online.
Online marketplaces: Some websites specialise in selling gift cards from local businesses.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Forgetting about expiration dates: Check the expiration date on the gift card and encourage the recipient to use it before it expires.
- Not considering the recipient's preferences: Choose a gift card from a business that the recipient will genuinely enjoy.
By implementing these tips, you can make a significant contribution to the success of local businesses and the vitality of your community. Remember, every small action counts! Consider exploring our services to see how Localway can further assist you in connecting with and supporting local businesses. If you have any questions, please refer to our frequently asked questions section.