In an era of globalisation, it’s sometimes tempting for business owners to forget about their local community. When we can market our business products and services to the whole world, it’s easy to forget about the smaller world right outside of your window– but the local community is an area you should be focusing some of your business efforts on. Even if you just run your business from your home, there’s still a huge value to be found in emphasising your local connections.
If you can establish yourself as part of the local business scene, word-of-mouth referrals will do as much good for your bottom line as a constant worldwide advertising campaign can. Furthermore, you will find that the more invested the community is in your company, the more they will go out of the way to assist you in times of need. You’ll always be the number one choice when residents need a company that provides the services you do; your business will be the one they recommend to their own business connections. Making the most of this fertile landscape is incredibly important, but what are the best ways to go about it?
Sponsor A Charity Event
Any business owner will want their company to be associated with good deeds and charitable giving, and this is all the more important when it comes to the local community. You want the residents to see your company as beneficial for the entire community, even if many of them will never use your services.
Sponsoring a charity event — such as a fun run or a bake sale — is the best way to achieve this. You’ll get to help your fellow residents, raise awareness of your business, and raise money for a charity at the same time. Definitely, one to consider.
Support Local Teams
From the smallest village to the largest city, where there’s a population of people, there will be a sports team. It might just be the local under-8s rugby club or a bigger, nationally-known football team– either way, making it clear your business supports this team and the surrounding community is very beneficial.
There’s a variety of ways in which you can do this. You could contact the likes of Mob Film Company to produce an advert featuring the team, which will be especially exciting for a team of youngsters. If you have more funds available, then you could always consider sponsoring the team kit or a stand of their stadium.
Offer Special Deals To Local Customers
Finally, if you can offer a special deal to local customers, then you will go a long way for generating good cheer. It doesn’t have to be a lot or require a huge amount of investment; sneak peeks on services, a reduced rate for return business– but something to show that you’re receptive to the local community will go a long way.
Ultimately, finding and nurturing your place in your local community will do you and your business the world of good. It might be a small world, but it’s one you belong in, so ensure you take the time to cement your place in it.
