Do you remember when getting your business noticed meant throwing money at a billboard, paying for a radio jingle that got stuck in everyone’s head (but in an annoying way), or praying people still used the yellow phonebook? While sure, some of these are still fairly good options nowadays, especially if you live in a major city, for most cities and small towns, it’s just not really the case anymore. If you’re looking to promote your small business, for most areas, this really was the best way to get a business known by locals.
In fact, even just two decades ago, that was the playbook. It was expensive, hit-or-miss, and honestly, kind of boring. But it mostly worked, and again, major cities can still easily offer these types of marketing too. So, fast forward to today, and the marketing game has done a full 180.
Those small businesses with local roots now have a buffet of options to choose from, many of which don’t require spending a fortune. At the center of all this? Well, it’s networking.
Why Network?
Technically, this isn’t anything new either, but it’s best to get one thing clear here; networking isn’t just standing around awkwardly at a mixer, juggling a soggy cocktail napkin and a stack of business cards. It’s about showing up, being part of your community, and connecting with people in a way that feels real.
So, when it’s done right, it’s like planting little seeds of goodwill that eventually grow into solid business relationships, and it’s way more fun than staring at an empty phonebook ad. But how can you do this all without coming off as an annoying salesperson? Well, there are some ways to go about it.
Show Up Where Your Community Hangs Out
Okay, so first things first: if you want people to know your business, you’ve got to actually show up where your community gathers. Farmers’ markets? Absolutely. Craft fairs? Sign up. Charity runs? You better count on it!
So, these events aren’t just about selling stuff, they’re about showing your face, shaking hands, and having genuine conversations. Besides, people love supporting businesses they feel connected to, and nothing says “local legend” like being the friendly face they see at every weekend event. But even smaller gatherings, like school fundraisers or a Saturday park clean-up, can work wonders.
Just think about it this way; you’re not just networking, you’re making friends who will remember your name when they need what you offer. This is how you truly promote your small business in your community!
Partner with Other Local Businesses
Now, here’s the thing, local businesses aren’t your competition, they’re your community. Seriously, this one just can’t be stressed enough! Just think about it this way; collaborating with other businesses can open up doors you didn’t even know existed.
It might even help to just picture this little scenario too; a local coffee shop teams up with a bakery to create the ultimate morning combo, or a yoga studio pairs with a health food store for a wellness event. It’s cute, right? Well, suddenly, you’re not just two businesses, rather, you’re a dynamic duo that’s making waves. You really need to think of it like this; partnerships like these don’t just boost sales; they create buzz.
But yes, people love seeing local businesses work together, and the added visibility means more customers for everyone.
Get Active at Town Hall Meetings
Yes, town hall meetings. Have you ever watched the show Parks and Recreation? Well, it’s a pretty nice example of what some town halls consist of (mainly in major cities, but you get the idea). Sure, these might sound like the last place you want to spend your evening, but they’re actually gold for networking.
These meetings are where decisions are made, issues are discussed, and the local power players show up. So, just by being present and contributing to the conversation, you’re not just networking, you’re showing your community that your business is here to make a difference.
And if you can sneak in a little mention of how your business can help solve a local issue? Well, that’s the networking equivalent of hitting a home run. It’s a great way to promote your small business and make a lasting impact on the local community.
Volunteer for Community Projects and Committees
So, do you want people to remember your business and feel good about supporting it? Well, just volunteer. It could be something like serving at a local soup kitchen, joining a charity clean-up, a local committee (like a parade planning committee for example), or sponsoring a fundraiser, volunteering is one of the best ways to build connections.
But overall, volunteering puts you in front of people who care about the same things you do. It’s the perfect setting for casual conversations where you can naturally mention your business without feeling salesy. Plus, people love businesses that give back, just think if it this way; it’s like free goodwill on steroids.
Join Local Networking Groups
If you’ve got a small business, chances are there’s a networking group waiting for you to join. No really, there are, even small towns offer something, for example, there’s the chambers of commerce, entrepreneur meetups, and small business associations are perfect places to connect with other business owners.
And guess what? These aren’t stuffy, boring meetings (well, sometimes they are). But for the most part, they’re filled with people just like you who want to share ideas, build relationships, and help each other succeed. If you’re looking to promote your small business, these groups can be a great place to start.
Leverage Local Business Directories
Remember the yellow phonebook? It was mentioned in the intro earlier because, for a lot of businesses, this really was one of the only few affordable ways to market your business and get known. Dark times, right? Well, thankfully there are more options nowadays like local business lists, it’s not exactly like a phone book but some similarities.
Basically, it’s an online directory that its it easy for locals to find your business and learn about what you offer. Plus, unlike the old-school phone book, you can actually add your own description and make it eye-catching too. This is a great way to promote your small business and increase visibility in your local community.
Collaborate with Local Influencers
Some people choose to do this one, so it’s really up to you whether you’d like to do this one or not (and it might even depend on our business as well. But you could always look into teaming up with local influencers, seriously, they’re not always just for the big brands either! Believe it or not, but your local community probably has a treasure trove of micro-influencers, so yeah, people with loyal followings who can make a big impact. No, they don’t need to be massive either. If your town has 2000 residents, then it’s more than acceptable that they have only 500 followers (who assumingly are all locals).
For example, if you own a cafe, then you could look into a local foodie blogger who’s always raving about local restaurants to work with you, or the fitness coach who has a packed gym class every weekend. But ideally, just partner with them, and their audience becomes your audience.
Seriously, a single Instagram post or blog shoutout can promote your small business to a whole new crowd.
Host Events People Can’t Stop Talking About
Why wait for networking opportunities when you can create your own? No, seriously, just think about it! So, hosting an event, whether it’s a grand opening, a workshop, or a community fundraiser, is a great way to bring people to you.
Just think about it: everyone loves a good event. Throw in some snacks, a little music, and maybe even a fun activity, and you’ve got a recipe for success. The best part? Events let people experience your business firsthand, which is way more memorable than any ad.
Make Social Media Your Local Soapbox
Now, this one might be generic, but it’s something that so many business owners use, and yes, that should include you too! So, social media isn’t just for big brands and influencers, it’s where your business can shine, too. Use it to showcase your personality, share behind-the-scenes moments, and engage with your community. People love businesses that feel human, and social media is the perfect place to show that side of you. Promote your small business in this way, and watch it grow!
