It takes a lot to be a small business owner. You’re putting yourself out there and taking risks to do something you love. Running your own small business is certainly admirable, and can be very rewarding. At the same time, even with the right online marketing tools, it can be a challenge.

It’s important to know that you are not alone when it comes to the ups and downs of owning a small business. That’s because there are over 28.8 million small businesses in the U.S. with 56.8 million employees.

When people shop small, everyone wins!

We love supporting small business owners. It’s the reason we do what we do and why we’ve released a free online marketing guide for small businesses.

But despite all the hard work and strategy that goes into running a small business, it’s important to find time to celebrate yourself. Let’s take a moment to remember some of the most common reasons people choose to shop small!

1. People love supporting people

As a customer, it feels great to know that you are helping real people, even people you may know personally. You are helping to support their families and their dreams by shopping small.

2. The personal experience

People love when you are able to tailor their experience. You have the ability to make each and every customer feel special when they do business with you. Plus, the expertise and passion you exhibit translates to helping customers find exactly what they need. No one knows your business better than you. Also, the relationships you build make you more approachable, as customers aren’t afraid to ask for suggestions or product details.

3. Quality is key

The passion for your business means that you strive for higher quality products. Your customers know to come to you in order to find those unique products and gifts. You also have the ability to price your products and services to stay competitive. This allows customers to find better quality items at better prices over the big box stores.

4. Job creation

Small businesses create two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. and employ over half of people in the workforce. Your ability to provide jobs allows your community and local economy to thrive.

5. Community support

As a small business, you typically go to other local businesses to buy materials and services to support your own business. You’re building relationships that help your community prosper. When people shop local, it also means that tax money stays in the community. You’re helping to fund local community improvement projects. If you’re going to pay tax, it might as well go to support local projects that impact your daily life.

So give yourself a pat on the back. These are just some of the things that differentiate your business from those big box stores that make you successful.

Create lasting connections

Now’s your chance to encourage your community to shop small. Make sure you are using the right online marketing strategies and that you’re welcoming your community into your business, whether it’s through your storefront or your small business website.

Let your customers know what makes your business special and how you can meet their needs!

Not sure where to start with marketing? That’s why we created The Download.

We know you're busy trying to grow your big idea. Because we work closely with small businesses like yours every day. Drawing on decades of experience, we're now sharing our online marketing knowledge in a free guide that's packed with tips, examples of what works and what doesn't, and a whole lot more, like:
*How people find you online*
*How to set yourself up for success*
*How it all comes together*
*How online marketing can work for you*