Category: Marketing

Building Community Support to Shop Local

Faire’s “Main Street Shopping” report (Faire is a leading online wholesale marketplace that connects locally-owned and operated shops with brands to stock their stores) highlights a growing trend: consumers are willing to spend more and travel farther to support local retailers, driven by a strong desire to engage with their communities. The report encourages small businesses to embrace this trend by building a unique, locally-focused shopping experience through curated products, partnerships with nearby businesses, participation in community events, and active social media engagement. You can read more in this piece on the US Chamber of Commerce site.

How Small Businesses Can Leverage AI to Build Brand Awareness

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can provide some cost effective support for small businesses as they leverage email campaigns, social media posts and search data to better target their customers. AI can work with existing marketing documents research to create material less time and for less cost than it would take create from scratch. Additionally, tools like Adobe Photoshop and Canva have now embedded AI image generation into their workflows, enabling non-designers to put together professional-looking graphics or layouts. To read more about how AI tools are helping level the playing field for small business, check out this recent article in CIO.

Why You Might Consider a Shop On Etsy

Etsy, originally an artisanal marketplace, has grown into a major platform for creative entrepreneurs, boasting a $3.5B+ valuation as of 2015. The user-friendly setup and management, along with potential for significant supplemental income, make it an attractive option for those looking to monetize their crafts amid rising living costs. See this piece in Essence for more info.

How Small Businesses Can Leverage Facebook/Meta

A Facebook presence is highly beneficial for small businesses, offering tools to promote services, increase customer support, and boost sales to its 2.91 billion users. With targeted paid campaigns and a Facebook Business Page, businesses can efficiently reach specific audiences, engage customers, and enhance their online visibility while keeping marketing costs low. To read more details about tips and tricks for effectively using Facebook for your small business, check out this article in Business News Daily.

Many Small Businesses Struggle with Marketing

Despite an improving economy and record-setting consumer spending, small businesses are struggling to effectively market their goods and services, with many overwhelmed by marketing and lacking confidence in their current strategies, as revealed by a report from Constant Contact. Factors such as economic worry and time constraints contribute to this marketing anxiety, leading to a cycle of procrastination hindering small businesses from reaching their potential.