“Shop local” has become a buzzword and a significant trend, especially among millennials. More and more people make it a priority to patronize smaller, one-of-a-kind restaurants or shop at local farmer’s markets or stores. This represents a great marketing opportunity for local businesses. Here’s how to capitalize.
Build a Local Brand
Position your company as a member of the community by being an active part of the local city. This may include joining the Chamber of Commerce, participating in community and charity events, and developing a relationship with other local businesses in partnerships or with discounts.
For instance, a company that provides a particular service can offer discounts or create partnerships with other local organizations to help keep more money flowing within the local economy.
Give Back
There’s nothing like positioning yourself, your employees and your company as a caring member of the community. Find worthy local charitable organizations to sponsor. In many cases, advertising and marketing opportunities come with sponsorship, whether that be in signage or space in a program. Choose those groups that are important to you and your employees.
In addition, you can give the gift of time by volunteering to be a mentor to young professionals, college students or high school students. You may want to start or join an organization that helps high-risk or underprivileged members of your community.
Use Technology
Be sure to take advantage of Google and promotional sites such as Groupon to advertise locally. If potential customers get on their computers or devices, they may be targeted by such organizations with advertising from nearby companies.
Participate in social media outlets and create an image of your company as a helpful expert in your particular area. You may be able to draw local business to your storefront or website by giving great advice or positioning yourself as a local partner.
Be Genuine
Everyone would prefer to do business with an honest person and organization. Be sure you stay genuine and real. Local companies have an easier time because in many cases, your employees are also members of the local community. They can be recognized and seen at local networking events as well as places like schools, shops, and recreational activities.
Invest in Local Networking
Select a few events where local networking makes sense for you and take advantage of this time to meet new people and businesses to exchange information. Be sure to pass along local businesses when you can refer them and expect that others will do the same for you.
If you’re ready to talk about local public relations in Las Vegas, contact GYC Vegas. This public relations company Las Vegas is a locally based business as well and has helped many small businesses expand their community presence.