The Yelp Illusion: Wall Street’s Grip on “Local” In a world increasingly dominated by corporate giants, it’s easy to feel like your choices don’t matter. But when it comes to supporting your local community, where you spend your money makes a big difference. While platforms like Yelp may seem like a convenient way to find
The Economic Case for Shopping Small: Statistics You Need to Know Small businesses are the lifeblood of communities across the nation. They’re the cornerstones of Main Streets, the incubators of innovation, and the employers of millions. While the allure of big-box stores and online giants is undeniable, the economic case for shopping small is more
Don’t Forget the Real World: Offline Marketing Strategies That Still Pack a Punch In today’s digital age, it’s easy to get caught up in online marketing. But don’t forget the power of offline strategies! These traditional methods can still be incredibly effective for reaching your target audience, especially in local communities. Here are some offline
Simple SEO Marketing: Boost Your SEO with a Newsletter or Blog Strategy Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. One of the most effective and accessible ways to boost your SEO is through a well-crafted newsletter or blog strategy. These tools allow you to create valuable content, engage your
Level Up Your Business: A Guide to Small Business Resources Navigating the world of small business ownership can be challenging, but you don’t have to go it alone. Numerous resources are available to help you succeed, from government agencies to non-profit organizations. Utilizing these resources can provide invaluable support, from funding and mentorship to training
5 Basic Ways to Optimize Your Google Business Profile for Maximum Impact In today’s digital landscape, your online presence is paramount, especially for local businesses. Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is often the first impression potential customers have of your business. It’s your digital storefront, and optimizing it is crucial for attracting
Will we ever learn? The Good, the Bad, the Ugly, and why “shop small and support local” should be an important part of our shopping rituals. “Shop local” – But does it matter? Let’s enter into the real story of local businesses: the good, the bad, the ugly, and why we should shop small and
The Stats Don’t Lie: Shopping Small Makes a Big Difference In an era dominated by retail giants and e-commerce behemoths, the call to “shop small” often echoes. But is it just a sentimental plea, or does it genuinely hold weight? The numbers paint a compelling picture: supporting small businesses isn’t just a feel-good gesture; it’s
Word-of-Mouth Marketing: Turning Customers into Your Biggest Fans The Power of Word-of-Mouth: Turning Customers into Your Biggest Fans In today’s saturated marketplace, where businesses are vying for attention, there’s one marketing strategy that remains incredibly powerful: word-of-mouth marketing. It’s the oldest form of advertising, and it’s still one of the most effective. Why? Because people
For Every $100 Spent at Local Small Businesses, $68 Stays in the Community. Invest Wisely. When you’re deciding where to spend your hard-earned money, it’s easy to default to big box stores or online giants. However, it’s crucial to remember that where you shop has a significant impact on your local community. Studies have shown