Your Presence in Your Communities: Why Connection Always Matters
The world went digital, and so did how we connect!
Likes on Instagram, text messages, and emails, our most used connection points, have become accustomed to the online realm. Now, this shift doesn’t mean that we aren’t connecting anymore, just that how we connect has changed.
As small business owners, our most common connection (especially for those without a brick-and-mortar store) is through our screens, with customers, clients, and ultimately, our community.
While you should be engaging with your clients and customers, you should also be reaching out and interacting with your fellow entrepreneurs and business owners.
I moved to Kingston in 2024. While I had some connections and friends, professionally speaking, this was uncharted territory. I knew that once I was settled, it was time to get my business settled and familiar with the new community it was entering.
But why? Why, as a remote, service-based business, was I so focused on engaging with my new community?
It all boils down to these three reasons:
Uplifting your community uplifts your economy
When you invest time, energy, and resources into your neighbourhood, your city, or even your industry, you're not just giving back, you’re planting seeds that will help everyone thrive.
Local support leads to local success. A thriving community often translates to a thriving customer base.
Being a business owner is lonely; we all need friends
Being a business owner can feel lonely. You’re carrying the weight of decisions, leadership, and vision all on your own. That’s why we all need friends, people who get it, who understand the journey, and who can celebrate wins and encourage you during setbacks.
Building real relationships in your community creates a strong support system that can make the entrepreneurial road a little less lonely.
Word of mouth is still the most tried and true marketing technique
Even in a world full of flashy ads and fancy marketing strategies, word of mouth remains the most powerful marketing tool.
People trust people. A recommendation from a friend or a respected community member can do more for your business than a dozen online ads.
Being present, being genuine, and investing in real connections ensures that when someone needs the services you offer, your name is the one they remember and recommend.
The way we connect with our communities, new and old, also says a lot about us.
While you should be more involved with your community, it is crucial to ensure you engage and participate with a give-and-take mentality.
Your community support should not be one-sided; as much as the community gives to you and your business, you should return the same energy back into the community.
So, how will you connect with your community today?
PS: I promised myself I would go to repeating events at least three times - the first time is always awkward. The second time, people recognize you. The third time, people know you’re here to stay. I encourage you to try that approach too!