Ways You Can Help Support Your Friend's Small Business

It's no secret, small businesses are struggling across the country.  In September, Forbes magazine reported More than 97,966 businesses have permanently shut down during the pandemic.  However, in a more recent and sobering article by NFIB, One-in-four small business owners reported that they will have to close their doors in the next six months if the current economic conditions don’t improve, up 5% from last month. Another 22% of owners anticipate they will be able to operate no longer than 7-12 months under current economic conditions.

Toscano Interiors is no different than any of these other businesses- and not immune to the challenges COVID has provided this year; which is why I am hoping all our friend's out there will help us get through these tough times and any other small businesses out there.

So, you may be wondering what you can do to support a friend’s small business during the holidays. If you are, don’t fret! I've got a list 

Tip #1: Support a Friend’s Small Business By Helping
Running a small business is an awful lot of work; it’s true. It’s likely your friends will occasionally need extra help (but usually don’t get it). That’s why, during the holiday season, volunteering to help out is a beautiful gesture. A couple of hours here and there, especially during their busiest times, can be a lifesaver. You could help them, for example, package up products for shipping. If they run a restaurant, you can help in the kitchen or with food prep. You don’t need any specialized skills to do a lot of things that will help them. Simply volunteer and do whatever it is they might need. It’s one of the best ways to support your friend’s small business!

Tip #2: Give Them a Social Media Shoutout
Social media is so important when figuring out how to support a friend’s small business.  ‘Liking’ and leaving comments helps your friend’s small business immensely! Take a look at their stories on Instagram and follow their Facebook page. Check them out on Twitter and share their posts on Snapchat. When a small business has a large following on social media, they stand out, get found, and flourish. Some small businesses rely almost 100% on social media to grow. The bottom line is that if you have a friend with a small business, engaging with them on social media is essential.

Tip #3:  Purchase Your Friend’s Small Business’ Products
While this may seem like a “no-brainer,” many people forget to shop at their friend’s small business. Some believe that they’re doing “just fine” and don’t need extra help. Others simply overlook this simple fact. Whatever the case, purchasing from your friend’s small business is the best way to support it. Plus, you’ll probably get the best service you’ve ever seen and products that are a step above the rest.

Tip #4: Talk About Them at Networking Events
Talking about your friend’s small business while you’re networking is fantastic! Even better, bring some of their cards and other advertising media. Talking about your friend’s business can be especially helpful if you’re an influencer in your industry. If you are, you have a bigger audience who will take your advice and recommendations. On the list of “how to support a friend’s small business,” this is one of the best!

Tip #5: Shop Your Friend’s Small Business’ Website
Although social media is dominant right now, business websites are still important. For most small businesses, their website showcases their products and services. It also attracts potential customers looking for their specific products and services. Visiting your friend’s website can have a positive impact on their Google ranking as well. (Just be sure to linger on their website as long as possible. Short visits, known as ” bouncing,” can affect their ranking negatively.)

Tip #6: Write a Review for Your Friend’s Small Business
This may be one of the best ways to help your friend’s small business during the holidays. Today, online reviews replace traditional “word of mouth” advertising. Seven out of ten consumers read online reviews before making a purchase. That makes reviewing vitally important. A positive review on, for example, Facebook, Houzz, Google Plus, and their website can do wonders! Keep in mind that it doesn’t have to be perfect, but simply super flattering.

Tip #7: Get Emails from Your Friend’s Small Business
The vast majority of small businesses have an email list. Signing up for that list allows them to ‘speak’ directly to you and usually comes with some great perks. You’ll get exclusive discounts, learn about sales, and much more! It costs nothing but can help your friend’s small business in ways you don’t realize.

Bonus Tips To Help Your Friend’s Small Business
You can do so many things to help support your friend’s small business during the holidays. Most are easy, simple, and cost absolutely nothing. They might be small, but, in time, the results can be tremendous. Here are a few bonus tips to help as the holidays get closer:

• Post a story about them on Instagram
• Leave a comment on their Facebook page.
• Hand out their promotional flyers on the street
• Share their social media posts with your followers.
• Tell friends, family, and colleagues about them.
• Hand out their business cards and brochures wherever you go
• Share an event they’re having on your social media.

We need all the help they can get. Running a small business is difficult, stressful, and time-consuming. (It’s rewarding too, but takes a lot of effort to get to the rewards.) The more you can do to help, the better. It’s easy and, in many cases, can even be a lot of fun!

I hope you enjoyed this list! Supporting small businesses is essential in every American town and city. Thank you for all your support, help, and caring! -Candance


#shopsmall #supportlocal #smallbiz #smallbusinesses #Christmasshopping

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