Small-town living isn’t just a Hallmark movie set for the team at WholeHeart
Communications. We all live in small towns and love the close-knit, charming communities we call “home.” We also have the honor of working with several small town-centered businesses and non-profit organizations.
Small-town entities face unique challenges, and the following methods can help overcome these challenges.
1. Use Social Media To Build An Audience
Social media is a powerful tool for small businesses to connect with customers and build relationships. Be consistent with your posting schedule. Aim to post at least once a month on each of your social media platforms. Link back to your website at least every other month. This will help people learn more about your business and what you have to offer. Post content that is valuable to your audience such as tips, advice, industry news, or even behind-the-scenes stories about your business.
2. Establish Grassroots Connections
Grassroots marketing is all about connecting with customers on a personal level. Attend community events and if you have the chance to set up a booth, have an engaging activity at your booth. Don't just sit behind a table and hand out flyers.
Small towns usually have limited roadways, making it easy to reach your audience as they are driving. Place eye-catching, easy-to-read signs in high-traffic areas. While billboards aren’t right for every business, they can be used strategically to reach your audience in an unobtrusive way.
3. Be There When They’re Searching
Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of optimizing your website and content so that it ranks higher in search engines like Google. When people search for keywords related to your business, you want your website to be one of the first results they see.
Make sure your company name, address, phone number, and website information is consistent on all directory listings. Post regularly on your Google My Business page. This will help your business show up in Google Maps and other Google products.
4. Create Connections Through Networking
Networking is a great way to meet new potential customers and build relationships with other businesses in your community. Join your local chamber of commerce and other business groups. Attend industry events and find mentors within your field and areas of interest. Become a go-to person in your community for information and referrals.
5. Do Good Work
The best way to market your business is to do good work and provide excellent customer service. When customers are happy with your products or services, they are more likely to leave positive reviews and refer your business to others.
Take a hard look at your customer service process and make sure it is top-notch. When you have a happy customer, ask them for a review on Google, Yelp, or other review sites. Don’t hesitate to ask your ideal customers for referrals to other people like them.
By following these tips, small businesses in small towns can compete effectively and achieve big results.
Just because your business is located in a small town doesn’t mean you can’t have a big impact. By following these methods, you can strengthen awareness of your company or cause and reach your target audience. If you are looking for assistance to walk out these strategies, contact us at info@wholeheart.biz for a free marketing assessment.