Why support small businesses? (Hint: your choices matter.)

May is National Small Business Month. There are myriads of small businesses we know and love from Bloomington to Jasper to French Lick, including restaurants, gift shops, roofing services, hardware stores and everything in between. So why support small businesses? You have a choice of where to shop and your habits make an impact. Let’s take a closer look at why supporting small businesses matters and simple ways you can take action.   

Why supporting small businesses matters

Boost local economy: Small businesses are vital to our economy — both locally and nationally. In fact, they employ 45.9% of American workers and make up 44% of GDP, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Supporting small businesses creates jobs and stimulates local prosperity.

Support a neighbor: Behind every local small business is a person who lives in your community. By shopping small, you directly impact neighbors and their families. Money from each sale helps fellow community members support their families, pay their bills and buy groceries.

Create local charm: Small businesses make our communities unique. Can you imagine a world where we could only shop at the same three big name stores? Local shops add character to our towns and give us more purchasing options. 

Buy from businesses that care: Small, local businesses often give back to the communities they serve. They work here; they live here, too. They might even support the same organizations that you do.

Receive superior service: Small shop owners work with passion and purpose. They opened a small business because it’s something they care about — it might be their dream, mission or family tradition. This drive usually translates into more personalized customer service and expertise.

How to support small businesses

Make shopping small a habit: Small businesses thrive on repeat customers. Be mindful about things you order online that you could get locally instead.

Buy a gift card: While you’re at a small business buying something for yourself, pick up a gift card to keep on hand for the next time you want to thank a teacher or celebrate a friend’s birthday.

Follow small businesses on social media: Small businesses often use social media to share news, such as sales, new products, featured menu items, events, and community involvement. By following small businesses on social media, you can stay informed and take advantage of special offers.

Like and comment on their social posts: Did your favorite coffee shop just post a photo of their new drink? Give it a like. And if you’re feeling bold, post a comment as well. This helps increase the chances of more people seeing their post, which could result in more sales.

Create a shoutout: When you’re amazed by a small business’s service, charm or product, tell your story on your social media accounts. Make sure to include the name of the business (and tag them) so your friends know where to find it.

Tell a friend: You don’t need a social media account to spread the word about a small business — just tell your friends the old-fashioned way.

Post a positive review online: Share your glowing testimonial on Google Reviews and Facebook Reviews. This helps the business tremendously by boosting their credibility and reputation online. 

You Can Make a Difference in Your Community 

What businesses do you love in your town? Think about that little boutique with unique trinkets. The restaurant with cozy booths and peanut butter pie. The friendly team that installed siding on your house. That local landscaping nursery with the gorgeous spring blooms.

In celebration of National Small Business Month, make the choice to support small shops in May, and then carry on the practice all year round. When you shop small, you not only support the local economy, but you also directly impact neighbors in your community.

At Smithville, we provide Fast Fiber Internet, Voice and Smart Security for small businesses and enterprises in our community. As an independent, family-owned business, Smithville appreciates each customer who chooses us as their local provider. Thank you!