When it comes to your business, there’s a good chance you’re online. You’ve got your social media strategy and your website.
But what happens if you want to get local publicity for your business. How can you encourage the people that live in your hometown to know who you are and buy from you?
Here are five things you can do to get local publicity for your business:
1. Join the Local Chamber of Commerce
Start by joining the local Chamber of Commerce. When I first moved in locally, I joined the local Chamber and started going to the networking events. I went to lunches, after-hours meetings, and joined the young professionals’ group. This helped me network with people and even gave me a chance to present at Chamber events.
I got access to a lot of resources as well. This provided me a way to grow my business reputation locally and make a little extra money.
2. Offer Local Seminars and Workshops
Depending on your business, it’s possible to grow your business locally by offering workshops and seminars. A social media expert in my town drummed up some local business by hosting a free workshop about developing a social media strategy. In the end, many business owners were excited to use his plan — and even bought consulting packages on the spot.
If your business fills a need in the local business community, you can connect by putting on helpful workshops and seminars that can lead to sales of other products and services you offer.
3. Show Up to Community Events
Is there a summerfest in your town? Perhaps there’s an annual civic event around the holidays or at Earth Day. Whatever it is, realize that you can publicize your business just by being there. Get booth space, and come with your product or flyers describing your service. Let people know who you are at popular local events, and pretty soon they’ll recognize you as the go-to place.
4. Connect with Your Local Media Outlets
You might be surprised at what you can accomplish with your local media outlets. Get to know local reporters and editors at newspapers, TV, and radio stations. If you’re doing something newsworthy, they’ll be happy to have you. It’s also possible to share your credentials and let them know you’re available for comment. Local news organizations love it when they can put a local spin (with a local expert) on a national story.
Depending on what you offer, you might also be able to get a regular column or be on TV at a set time during the week. I don’t get paid for it, but my profile is raised in my community because of the monthly column that appears in the newspaper.
5. Get Local on Social
You can still benefit from social media at the local level. Find local Facebook groups devoted to services, events, and products. If the group’s terms allow for it, consider participating in discussions and selling your wares locally. You’ll tap into a set of locals who could easily become customers.
