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“Be on the alert to say what needs to be said and do what needs to be done.” (J Winthrop Aldrich)
Local businesses are an important part of any community. They provide jobs, services, and contribute to the local economy. For many small businesses, the work is never done, as they build their business and grow from day to day. But studies are now showing that offering community support is becoming increasingly more important to small business owners. Why? The simple answer is that by lending their support to important causes, they can make a positive impact on their community and help to foster a sense of community spirit. How does that help business? And why, as a small business owner, should YOU start (or continue) getting involved?
1. Builds Trust and Loyalty with Customers
Local businesses that get involved in community causes can build trust and loyalty with their customer base, the local people. By showing their commitment to important causes, they demonstrate their values and show that they care about the community, beyond just selling products or services. This can help to build a strong relationship with customers and generate goodwill towards the business. Every small business relies upon relationships and their local network. So to get involved and 'give back' to your own community IS doing 'good business'.
2. Demonstrates Social Responsibility + A Positive Image
Community involvement is a key component of social responsibility. By giving back to the community and offering support for various local causes, local businesses can demonstrate their commitment to ethical business practices and social responsibility. This can help to enhance their reputation and create a positive image in the community.
3. Boosts Employee Morale and Engagement
Employees who are proud of their employer’s commitment to making a positive societal impact are more likely to be engaged at work and have a positive attitude towards the company. By supporting community causes, local businesses can help to create a sense of purpose and a positive workplace culture. Quality of life is an important factor for many employees and by encouraging community involvement on the employee level, helps to improve the overall quality of life for your employees.
4. Fosters a Stronger Community
By supporting local charities, non-profits, and community organizations, they help to improve the quality of life for everyone in the community. In turn, this can help to create a more cohesive and supportive community spirit, which can benefit all businesses and residents. "A community that grows together, glows together."
5. Helps to Address Important Social Issues
How so? By supporting a local charity that addresses, for example, homelessness or environmental issues, local businesses can contribute to solving these problems in their community. By working together with other community organizations, they can make a bigger impact than they could alone.
Community involvement is a key factor to doing business. If you are a business owner, comment what community causes you are involved in. We'd love to hear about it!
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