During the holiday season, it’s common to see slogans like “shop small” or “shop local”. These catchphrases may feel a bit out of place in spring, but you know what, 2020 is just straight up bizarre. So…we’ll roll with it.
COVID-19 has turned our year upside down. It’s easy to get lost in the overwhelm of it all (I sure do sometimes) but it’s also important for us to explore what we can do to help those in need. And, supporting small and locally-owned businesses is something everyone can (and should) do.
Because we are all staying safe at home, it might seem cumbersome to figure out what you can do to help small business owners. Additionally, finances are tight for many of us. Below, I’ve compiled a list of 3 ways you can support small businesses through this pandemic (and bonus – two of them are absolutely free!).
Marketing
You don’t have to be a digital marketing specialist to spread love and awareness for your favorite small business on social media. Tag them, post photos of their goods or details about their services on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn. And, don’t forget to leave them a review online!
Refer a Friend
Keeping your ears peeled to people who might need the products or services of small businesses you know and love gives you the chance to play matchmaker. Small businesses, especially those in the services industry, depend on word of mouth referrals for the bulk of their clientele. So make sure you’re sending friends and family their way.
Buy Gift Cards
Most businesses (including mine) have the capability to sell online gift cards now. This is a wonderful way to support your favorite shops, cafes, and vendors. For my business, if you know you’re going to want photos this year, you can purchase a gift card here and use it for a future session (including my coveted fall minis!).
I know that this year hasn’t amounted to what we all had planned. I’m not sure about you, but I came into 2020 with BIG energy. Coronavirus be damned – I’m not giving up hope (and you shouldn’t either). I think it’s important to strike a balance between being hopeful and honoring where we are at this very moment – which happens to be in the middle of a global pandemic.
I hope the ideas above give you some insight into how you can be proactive in supporting small businesses right now. Please know that this small business owner appreciates you very much!
Even though we’ve never been more apart – remember that we are very much going through this together. And that’s something I draw so much comfort from.