It’s been a hard year for business; by now you surely know of a few local stores or studios whose doors, unfortunately, won’t be opening up again because of the pandemic. Small, local businesses are the backbone of America, and it’s important to show our support and help them stay open right now!

A great way to do this is to shop online locally. Many businesses have set up an e-commerce site and you can make purchases, buy gift cards or prepay services, supporting them with the click of a button. Your actions will mean more to a local business owner than just the cha-ching of a cash register. You’re showing that you’re here for them and that you believe in them -- a message that will uplift a real person in your community.

Many public-facing business owners and their employees are also missing their daily connection with the community, just as you are. Interacting with their social media, leaving a good review and/or answering feedback questions on Google Maps for a local business can benefit them and remind them of your support.

Do you own a small business yourself? Gratitude is best when shared all around the table and back, so let’s make sure our customers and vendors feel the love. 

Every small business owner feels thankful for their customers -- without them, it would be pretty hard to stay in business! Those people who come into your shop, order online or contract your services are giving you their vote of confidence along with the means to keep going and building towards success. 

Here are some ideas for customer appreciation:

First, a simple Thank You note or email -- especially a personalized one that mentions details about their interaction with you -- really goes a long way. You can also post a sign or badge in your business as a general message for all to see: ‘Thanks for supporting small business!’

Tangible rewards are also a great way to thank people: a loyalty program can be formal or informal and provide your repeat customers with free upgrades or special discounts. You could also generate some buzz as well as reward those who engage with your brand by hosting a giveaway.

Finally, if you’re like most small business-owners, your friends and customers are also running their own businesses, side hustles or non-profit projects. Share in networking with cross-promotion or add everyone’s information to a bulletin board as a community resource for mutual support.