Finding Local Businesses
Your television, social media feed and junk mail is likely filled with advertisements for big box stores and national chains. Information about them is easy to access and research is easy. Learning about local businesses, what they offer and the quality of their services can be a bit more challenging, but it’s an important part of being a local shopper who contributes to the financial health of your community.
Go Explore
One boon to local shopping is the healthy benefits of getting out and walking rather than just shopping from your computer. Money Crashers suggests that people who want to learn more about small businesses in their community should set aside a day to go exploring in their own town. They recommend doing it on foot or riding a bike. The website DiscoveryMap.com creates illustrated maps of many towns. You can call up a colorful map on your phone and tablet and use it to find places to stay, eat, shop and entertain yourself. Another place to get local maps is your local chamber of commerce. They may have maps or even shopping guides. Make them the first stop on your expedition. Take note of stores you find. Visit them and talk to the people who work there. Ask how long they’ve been in the community and what they do best.
Helpful Phone Apps
Your phone can be a helpful tool when it comes to trying to learn about local businesses. There are many apps offering a variety of services. Most will provide you with basic information such as operating hours, addresses, phone numbers and website addresses. Consider using some of these:
• Google Maps. While it won’t sort local from national shops, it will make lists of businesses in your community and help you find what stores are where. You can use it to search for exactly what you are looking for and then read reviews of the stores you are considering shopping at.
• Facebook. Search for “local small businesses” and see what groups pop up. If you can find one with business owners, it can be a great way to interact directly with them, asking the questions you have or seeing
• Nextdoor. This social media app can help you find small businesses and inform you what your neighbors think of them. It also has a businesses tab where you can find local deals and information about nearby businesses. what other local shoppers have to say.
• Yelp. With consumer reviews, Yelp is a way to start your research of a local business. What have other people experienced there? What do your neighbors love? Hate? Yelp will tell you.