How to Support Small Businesses without Spending Money
If you're like me, you love supporting small businesses. Not only are they more likely to use sustainable and ethical practices, but they also help to keep our local communities thriving. But sometimes it's tough to spend money on things we don't really need, especially when so many sales are happening online. So here are a few ways you can support small businesses without spending a penny!
Follow Small Businesses on Social Media and Share their Posts
With the ease of access to social media, it has become increasingly easier for people to support the businesses they love without spending any money. By following a small business on social media and regularly engaging with their content, you can help support them in a big way. Not only does this help to increase their visibility and reach, but it also helps to build a sense of community and connection.
In a world where large corporations often seem to dominate, it is more important than ever to support the small businesses that make our communities unique. So next time you see a post from your favorite local shop or restaurant, be sure to give it a like or leave a comment. It might not seem like much, but it can make all the difference.
Leave a Positive Review
Google and Yelp reviews are extremely powerful. They have the ability to make or break a small business. Just a few years ago, it was estimated that Yelp reviews influenced 22% of all restaurant bookings. And that number has likely grown since then. So, if you're looking for a way to support small businesses, one of the best things you can do is leave them a positive review on Yelp or Google.
How often do you look for reviews before making a purchase? Probably often. But when was the last time you wrote a review for a business or experience you enjoyed? Reviews are a key part of any business' success, and by taking the time to write one, you can help support the businesses you love.
Purchase Products or Services When Possible
If you are wanting to spend a little to support a small business... keep in mind, local businesses are the backbone of any community. They provide jobs, support local causes, and give back to the community in countless other ways. And yet, many people still choose to patronize large corporations instead of supporting their local businesses. There are a number of reasons for this, but chief among them is the perception that local businesses are more expensive than their corporate counterparts. However, this doesn't have to be the case. In fact, there are many ways to support local businesses without breaking the bank. For instance, you can purchase products or services from them when possible, or take advantage of their special offers and promotions.
The next time you need to purchase something, try looking for local businesses first. Not only will you be supporting your community, but you're also likely to get better quality products and services. So don't hesitate - show your local love today!
Tell your Friends and Family
There's nothing like finding a great new product or service and wanting to tell all your friends about it. Or discovering a hidden gem of a small business and wanting to share the find with others. Word-of-mouth recommendations are still some of the best ways to share with others. When you truly love a product or service, people can tell, and they'll want to learn more. So tell your friends and family about your favorite small businesses. You never know who you might help out by sharing the love. Plus, it just feels good to support small businesses and watch them grow!
Volunteer Time to Help Out a Small Business in your Community
As a busy woman, it can be hard to find extra time to support the small businesses you love. One of the easiest ways to support a small business is by volunteering your time to help out a small business! This could mean anything from helping out with a one-time event to becoming a regular fixture at their store.
Volunteering can take many forms, from helping with marketing and social media to physical labor and running errands. If you have a particular skill set, such as graphic design or web development, you can offer your services pro bono to help a small business get off the ground. Even if you don't have any special skills, you can still pitch in where needed. For example, you can help out with administrative tasks, customer service, or even just cleaning up around the store.
“Every little bit helps, and your time and effort will be greatly appreciated by the business owner and one thing is for certain, they will appreciate it more than you’ll know.”
Be Supportive and Encouraging
Any small business owner will tell you that running a small business is no easy feat. There are a million and one things to think about, from stocking shelves and keeping inventory to marketing and budgeting. And that's not even mentioning the behind-the-scenes work that goes into keeping the business running smoothly. So it's no wonder that a few words of encouragement can go a long way. Whether it's a friendly customer who takes the time to chat or a post on social media, a little support can make all the difference. And it doesn't have to be anything major - even something as simple as sharing a post or writing a positive review can make a big impact. So if you know someone who owns a small business, take a moment to show your support. A few kind words can go a long way.
Check out some of our FAVORITE small businesses:
2 Hungry Daughters: A delicious destination for easy recipes made with simple ingredients! Lisa, the cooking queen, is passionate about creating wholesome dishes that are both tasty and budget-friendly. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast to start your day or a satisfying dinner to wind down with, she's got you covered. Her recipes are perfect for busy families or anyone who wants to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, next time your stressing about what to eat, check out her page for new recipes!
Pilates Body by Kayla: Kayla specializes in helping you build a strong foundation and finding your core muscles. With her expertise, you'll be able to tone your entire body - without a single piece of equipment. And because it's low-impact, you can do Pilates no matter your fitness level. So whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, Kayla will help you take your Pilates game to the next level.
Sprouted Planner: Are you looking for a planner that will grow with you? Sprouted Planner is the perfect solution! Their tools help you approach your days with a deliberate set of mind, space to gain perspective through reflection, and plenty of room for lists and notes. That's it.
Sprouted Planner is perfect for busy ladies who are always on the go! We know that your needs change often, so their planner is designed to be flexible and serve your changing needs.
Mama's Happy: Mama's Happy is unique home decor and gift shop, founded by Amanda Ficek. Amanda has a background in the apparel business and retail merchandising, and has a passion for beautiful home decorating on a budget.
They offer a wide variety of items, from home decor to gifts, all hand-selected by Amanda and her team. They pride ourselves on offering high quality products at fair prices.
Supporting small businesses is important, and it doesn’t have to cost you a thing! In fact, there are many ways that you can do your part without spending any money at all. So take a few minutes today and show your support for the small businesses in your community. Who knows? You might just find your new favorite place to shop or eat!