Three Little Ways To Build A Business And Give To The Community At The Same Time

The small print shop sat on the corner of a small town but amazingly it was constantly busy. There was a steady stream of people coming in and out of the shop and sales were booming for the happy owner. He had long ago decided that if the best advertising was word of mouth from satisfied clients then that would become his priority with each and every customer he acquired. Most of the repeat customers had relatively small orders but in his mind every sale added to a solid reputation for good work and a job well done. His company supplied customer requests for engraved birth announcements, wedding invitations and graduation announcements. In addition, he sought out area businesses and provided glossy Brochures and individually customized Presentation Folders. Max, the owner, knew that if he offered a good end product and a pleasant purchasing experience to his business customers he would gain their personal orders as well when a special occasion occurred in their families.

Max found that there were three simple ways he could enhance his neighborhood connection and make his name well known in his community. These are the main focus of his attention and they could be used with any small business as a way of getting the word out that not only are you open for business but you care about your community also.
1. Advertise in the local high school yearbook to support the school and make your business name familiar. This is such a small thing to do but it truly builds up your reputation in the area. Especially in a small town it give you the chance to lend financial aid without a large monetary investment and it is just a friendly thing to do. It can be quite enjoyable to support the local school sport teams and is appreciated by the high schools.

2. Offer a customer service card to promote sales from customers. Some businesses will give a discount based on the number of orders placed or when the dollar amount reaches a certain number. Others will give a small gift in appreciation and each order will build toward acquiring that prize. The customer service card does not have to be fancy but can consist of a small printed piece of cardstock that is punched with each order placed and can be especially effective in a coffeehouse or a bakery. Offering a free cup of coffee after the purchase of ten cups or a free donut after purchasing twelve rolls or donuts is a very fine enticement to remember to bring along the card.

3. List your name to a benevolent foundation and offer a manner in which your customers can donate to it through your business. Some stores will have a donation box next to the cash register to motivate their patrons to donate their extra coins. This works especially well at a locally owned restaurant or coffee shop. This type of neighborly friendliness is not only helpful to the designated recipient but it brings great satisfaction to all who contribute as well as to the owner of the business.