Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the fabric of our society, and they need our support now more than ever. In the midst of the global pandemic, non-essential businesses have been ordered to close their doors. While many of us are going to miss dining at our favorite restaurant and getting our hair cut, millions of workers are no longer able to go to work and make their living.
Ways You Can Support Local Businesses
Luckily, there are some things you can do to support your local businesses that are feeling the tensions during this unprecedented time.
Buy gift cards
Many of your favorite businesses such as breweries, restaurants, and gift shops offer gift cards. Purchasing a gift card can offer them cash flow that isn't available to them while their storefronts are closed and in some instances, can be essential to keeping them afloat.
Reschedule, don't cancel
If you have an event planned with one of these businesses, show your support by rescheduling for a later date rather than cancelling on them. Businesses like wedding venues and catering companies are experiencing an overwhelming number of cancellations, so while your event will need to be pushed off, please reschedule so they aren't expected to give you a refund. For many of these businesses, paying refunds because of cancellations could be detrimental.
Recognize your favorite businesses on social media
Social media is a powerful tool, and social distancing has led people to spend more time on their social accounts than before. This is a great time to show your support for local businesses by posting about them online! Give them shoutouts, leave positive reviews, and share their social media content to your friends and followers.
Think about ordering from a small business before resorting to Amazon
Before signing on to your Amazon Prime account, consider giving your local store a call to see if they can place an order and deliver for you instead. If you find yourself needing a hammer, give your local hardware store a call first. As a buyer, you are also an investor. Be thoughtful in where you invest your money. Big players like Amazon don't need your investment as much as your local flower shop does, for example.
Volunteer your time and skills
If you have the availability to offer your own skills on a volunteer basis, see if you can provide some support. No matter your skill set, it won't hurt to reach out to small business owners to see if your time could be of great benefit to them. For some, it may be helping them plan for the future and for others it could be helping them stay operational now. Either way, this is a great way to provide help and support your local businesses.
Conclusion
While this is a trying time for businesses everywhere, we can help them stay afloat by showing our support in these few ways. If you're unable to offer your money or time to these businesses, consider giving local owners a simple call to check in on them. Kindness and compassion go a long way, especially during times like this.