Many business owners and staff dream of connecting their companies to the local community in a meaningful way. For some, this goal can finally be achieved only after years of hard work. Other businesses factor community into their business model from the beginning and aim to build these relationships from the outset. They begin by conducting small business event marketing at local fairs. In doing so, they introduce their brands to their communities.
Regardless of which scenario aptly reflects your circumstance, there are five practices that are sure to help initiate a positive rapport in your regional area and achieve your objectives. By looking at successful companies such as Neill Sullivan Oakland and other community-focused examples, you can see how quickly one can fulfill these dreams.
Make Improvements
Whatever your specialty is, share it with your community and make noticeable improvements that citizens can benefit from. A landscaping company can donate labor and materials to beautify a park, whereas an accounting firm can implement an annual program that offers free tax assistance to those in need. It does not matter what services your business provides; there is always a way to use it in a manner that enhances the community and enriches lives.
Hire Local
A thriving, dynamic and fulfilling society is formed when the people of the area can live and work comfortably in the place they call home. Your business can facilitate this type of environment simply by making a commitment to hiring local employees, contractors and other service providers. This single act helps to stabilize a local economy and establishes familiarity and loyalty between those who run the company and the residents that they directly impact. With this familiarity and loyalty between your business and consumers, you can generate a successful brand marketing strategy.
Find A Cause
There are plenty of charitable organizations that one can raise money for. However, it is a good practice to choose one charitable organization that is meaningful to you and your company. Some businesses may base this decision on the type of work they do. For instance, if you run a construction company, you might look towards building homes for low-income families. Sometimes there is no such commonality, and the charity of choice is picked for personal reasons. Regardless, take time to select the right organization for you and stick with it.
Value Creativity
Life is about more than money, numbers, doing business and making a living. Let your business show a fun side to the local community and bring art, music and special events to the area. Implement unique local advertising ideas to connect with your community. Putting smiles on faces and sharing beauty with others does not have to be complex or expensive. Add a bit of whimsy to the day and people will remember it for years to come. Whether it is a workshop with artists in residence, regional chamber music on the square or family movies in the park, it is always a good idea to let go and have fun.
Be Available
Though committing to a charitable cause is important and rewarding, this is not the only way in which your company can support people in need. A thriving community will offer a variety of services and organizations that help citizens of all ages grow and learn. Such programs often need funding for scholarships or to serve a larger population of residents. If the fit is right, make sure your business is available to listen to these needs and be a resource for support in whatever means you are able.
Running a company is full of challenges, and there will always be good years and bad years. However, facing these struggles is much easier and more pleasant when we are doing it with the support of others. By joining your business together with the people and infrastructure of the community, you can strengthen your company and enjoy knowing that you will never be alone.