Unlike major retailers, these local businesses generally don’t have the cash reserves to sustain themselves during these times. We’ll inevitably see many of them close their doors permanently.
But we all want to see our favorite local establishments survive so that we can patronize them when it’s safe to be back out in the world. So, here are a few things you can do as a consumer to help those businesses stay afloat, especially if you’re someone whose income stream isn’t affected by the novel coronavirus.
While the governments around the world are doing its part to protect the economy, there are also plenty of ways the people can support their favourite local businesses, whether they are book shops, music venues or coffee houses.
Here are six ways to help small businesses stay afloat during the coronavirus crisis.
1. Share their message on social
Due to social distancing, people are spending more and more time on their phones and computers. That means more eyes on social media pages.
A lot of small business are on social media and they are sharing product updates and news to inform their customers with some behind the scenes action.
By simply liking or sharing their posts you’re helping them getting their content in front of more people.
2. Consider a small business before hitting ‘buy’ on Amazon Prime
Many small businesses would be happy to order supplies and deliver them to you. Consider the small players before you automatically buy from larger companies like Target or Amazon.
3. Order takeaway food and drink
While many local restaurants have opted to close their doors completely, a number are still open for takeaway and delivery, including spots that did not provide that service before the outbreak.
If you have the income, consider taking a night off from cooking every now and then to help support local cafes, bars and restaurants through the coming months.
Many independently owned food and drink businesses are now getting on to delivery platforms like Uber Eats and Deliveroo, but if you cannot see your favourite outlet listed, give them a call to see if they will consider delivering a meal or selling the ingredients to make something yourself.
It is worth noting that some third-party apps can charge local restaurants fees that put an added squeeze on finances, so if you can order directly, do.
4. Leave positive reviews
Financial support isn’t all there is to helping local businesses—you can uplift an entire community by leaving great reviews online about services that you’ve used in the past.
Great reputations take years to build, and are often the result of immense personal effort. The few minutes that you take to write heartfelt and positive recommendations about the local champions who always make your day may be just what it takes to drive more customers to these vetted services. Not only will your kind words of well-deserved praise increase the business’ visibility, but it’ll also serve as a huge boost of moral support to the self-employed and small business owners who rely solely on themselves to hold up their main source of income.
5. Sign up to their newsletter
Newsletters are a great way to stay up to date with business news, new products and information on products or services. Help them grow their email list by signing up and sharing the link to encourage others to do so too.
6. Tip like a boss
It’s a hard time to be a waiter, delivery driver, or barista, because not only are they likely working fewer hours, they’re getting fewer tips from their nonexistent customers. If you can afford it, make someone’s day with a good tip.
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