There’s no doubt that COVID-19 has created many difficulties for small businesses. They can’t see their regular customers/clients smiling faces in person, host or attend events, and overall have had to adapt promptly and change their normal operations in order to keep themselves, their staff and the community safe. Small businesses are the backbone of our community, so here are a few ways to continue supporting them from the safety of your couch.
Yes, another COVID reminder! Keep washing those hands, physically distancing and wearing your mask and following public health and government guidelines.
Shop Online
Do you need something? Are you looking for some retail therapy? Before you head to a big box franchise website, ask yourself if a local small business offers the same item. Check out their website for local shipping options or curbside pickup; if they don’t have an e-commerce website at this time, pop over to their social media pages and send them a simple message for an update on their current inventory. Also, be sure to check out the new Belleville Downtown District online shop to browse over 1,000 items from the District – coffee, clothing, virtual yoga class passes, you name it.
Fun fact: a small business owner does a little dance every time they receive an order, so feel good knowing that you’re bringing a smile to their face and supporting them through a hard time.
Give Them a Positive Review
If you have worked with a small business or purchased something from them, spend a few minutes leaving them a review! Search for them on Google and leave a review on their Google My Business profile or other review-based sites.
Write a Testimonial
A similar option to leaving a review is writing a testimonial. Business owners love hearing from their customers! They enjoy hearing about your experience, the product you purchased or how a service has impacted you. Email them or message them on social media with a short description and positive note.
Tell a Friend
Word of mouth is one of the best ways to market. People trust the individuals who are close to them, so if there is a small business that you love, tell your friends and family! Chances are they will remember your recommendation and check out that small business next time they need something.
Show it Off
If you have a social media account, post a review about them and tag them! This will make their day and will help share their brand with more people across the region (or country). If you bought an item of clothing, consider taking a photo or video explaining why you like it. Did you order delicious takeout or take an online class from a small business? Tell people about it! And, unboxing videos aren’t just for people with YouTube accounts getting a new piece of technology – it’s fun and supportive for everyone!
Support Them on Social Media
If you don’t feel like doing a post or video, there are some free and easy things you can do to support small businesses:
• Like their posts
• Leave a comment
• Share their post in your story (tag them)
• Save posts
• Turn on notifications or follow them
Buying something from a small business could help the owners buy something that they need for their business or their own family. And, sharing their products or your review/testimonial on social media could increase their chance of being seen by more people in the local community, the province, the country, and even the world – increasing the chances of more support and potential customers, that will help them continue to operate.
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