"A big business starts small" – Richard Branson
The pandemic has shown us that small businesses are a mainstay in our economy, and aside from the numbers, these shops, eateries and offices make up the fabric of our communities. One of many challenges we face due to this virus is changing routines like visiting your gym or shopping at a boutique. The places where people often meet- whether it's going out for dinner with friends or seeing an art exhibit are also usually run by local proprietors who need support through all stages: planning better hygiene practices; adjusting their menus so they don't rely on raw foods (raw meats can be contaminated); providing staffing during peak hours when there may not be enough help - especially if you're someone who does more than one job! There's a lot of planning but it can be done.
So how do you support local businesses that may not have the financial means to plan and prep for days when they aren't open?
If you're a restaurant or bar try to establish partnerships with other eateries in your area who are being affected by this virus so you can swap or trade shifts so that you can all stay open.
If you're a commercial or residential property owner you might want to consider hosting your local business who is at risk of having to close for a time as an occupant in order to support the community. A lot of food trucks, farmers markets and pop ups are being shut down during this time and I think it's a great way to support our neighbors.
If you use an app like Instacart or Door Dash for your groceries, don't forget that there are local people who deliver groceries door to door on bicycles who are also at risk during this outbreak. They would appreciate the business, they don't ask for tips and they make it convenient by delivering directly to your door.
Most people take for granted the modern conveniences that make life more convenient. However, when small businesses close down as a result of this downturn in economy and some employees are left unemployed with no job prospects on the horizon, I am reminded how important they really are to our society – not just because many were born into it but also due to their contributions to local communities by providing jobs. While there is nothing we can do about what has already happened or will happen in future years beyond being supportive during these difficult times through words and actions (like eschewing big chain stores), thankfully you don't need money or even leave your home! There's plenty you can do from behind your computer screen. Continue reading for some of my favorite ways to support small businesses when you don't have money in your pocket.
How to Support Small Businesses for Free:
-Share posts from a business on social media. Watch for updates and inspiring posts from businesses to keep up with what they are doing. They might have good ideas for you. Keep in touch with them by watching their Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn page so that you can tell them about your ideas too.
-You can support small businesses by doing one thing each week. Maybe you will buy something from them or tell people about them. This is good for both the business and the economy.
-Review a business. Nowadays, it is important for people to have good customer service or high quality products. If they have good reviews, then more people will come and buy their products.
-Tell friends and family about your favorite small business. Word of mouth is powerful, so share it personally with members of your family or close contacts who you know want to keep the best local businesses in mind for their own purchases.
-Help your friends find gifts. Many small businesses are giving posts with special promotions in order to gain new customers. When you see these kinds of posts – tag a friend, and they may be interested in buying the product.
Want to learn about Manifesting Money? Check out Billy's Episode on: Learn How To Manifest Money With Billy Carson and Antione Sallis!
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