How to Build Your Business Presence In Your Community

I have lived in the same area for over 30 years. I stay because I like it, it is convenient to a lot of life`s necessities, has seasonal change and the list goes on and on. I have volunteered for a number of years in various community activities for the sake of lending a helping hand and making the community a better place. Not all people enjoy this or think that way, but if you are a business owner, and your business success relies heavily on your surrounding community, you should consider building a presence there. Now this does not mean you should run out and work at the soup kitchen 12 hours a day, or coach every sports team, but you should get to know the people in your town, what they like, dislike and so on.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Your first step is to create a community hearing group from your customer base. This group is responsible for listening to and creating ideas on how the business could help benefit the community. Once established, publicize the group through press releases.
2. If you do not have a newsletter, you should definitely start one. A newsletter is a great way to keep people reminded of your business as well as inform them of other events you may be partaking in. Post your newsletter on your website, email it to customers who asked to receive it via email and send it regular mail to those on your customer list who do not have email.
3. Give back to the community. That does not mean donate thousands of dollars unless that is what you choose. Make donations that represent your business. If you own a sporting goods store, consider donating some equipment to a local sports league.
4. Finally, get your face and name out there by volunteering to help your town. Not only is this a great feel good type of activity it is also a great way to network with others who also volunteer. Encourage employees to volunteer with you.