Everyone knows someone in their community who owns their own business. These local businesses need their communities to thrive. While it is not always easy to run a local business, like The Rogue Chef; you can personally help support the growth and success of a business without spending any money. Of course, the business would be thrilled to sell a product or service to you, if needed, but until you need them, please consider supporting local businesses using these 7 ways.
- Shower the Owner with Compliments – Your positive words cost nothing. Use them abundantly to build confidence, show support, and increase optimism. Running a local business can be challenging, but if one person says one positive thing, it could make all the difference in the life of a business owner.
- Here are some examples of positive phrases you can use to encourage a business owner: “Your website looks great.” “This product really helps my family.” “I enjoy being in your business.” “You look stunning.” “How can I help you succeed?” “You have great ideas.”
- Stop by and Visit – If you are in the area, stop in and say hello. You don’t need to buy anything. Say, “Hello. I just stopped by to see how everything is going.” You might use some of those positive compliments, too (See #1). “Wow! Your place looks amazing!” The owner will be encouraged by your visit.
- Send a Note – Simply leave a card or note when you stop by or if you are willing to spend some change, old school snail mail works, too. You could even text or send an encouraging message to the owner online. This is a small effort on your part, but it can make a big difference to the business owner.
- Refer Others – Tell other people about the local business. Most people don’t use local businesses because they don’t know the business exists. Advertising and Marketing cost money, but Word-of-Mouth cost nothing. Using those positive compliments (see #1) pairs well when referring others.
- Take Action on Social Media – Scrolling is easy and many times you see posts from local businesses. Take a second to Like, Comment, and Share local businesses posts. This costs nothing and you literally can change the social media algorithm. Local businesses work hard to make a social presence, but this is challenging while running a successful business. A business can post every single day and still not be seen by people in the community. If you Like, Comment (Just say “I like this” or “Looks good” or “Wow”), and Share, the posts get seen by more people. More interaction means more people will see the posts. You can even invite your friends to like a local business. This is truly the easiest way to help a local business without spending a dime.
- Write a Review – Local businesses live for positive reviews. You will make an owner smile just by giving a 5 star review. Reviews can be made on Google, Facebook, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and many other sites. It doesn’t have to be a long, detailed review. Use those positive words of encouragement (See #1) to build up a business.
- Hand out Business Cards – Most local businesses have a business card of some kind. Ask if you can take a few. Put one on the Community Board at your local grocery store or coffee shop. Leave a card with other businesses or groups who could benefit from the products or services sold. Business cards are everywhere and they are a great way to advertise local businesses without spending your own money.
Now that you know 7 ways to support a local business, like The Rogue Chef in Branson, Missouri, try using at least one of these ways each week. You can make a difference in the life of a business owner, and increase the positive atmosphere in your community.
If you are interested in reading more, consider reading How to Hire a Private Chef, Why You Should Hire A Private Chef, Culinary Lingo, and Which Private Chef Service is Right for You?
Written by: Dr. Dana, Co-Owner of The Rogue Chef, Branson, MO. 618-977-3156; www.TheRogueChefBranson.com