National Small Business Week was first introduced in the United States in 1963 under President John F. Kennedy. The United States has always been proud of the small businesses that make up its American economy. Throughout the years, the amount of small businesses and entrepreneurships has grown exponentially. In fact, there are more small businesses and entrepreneurships, both online and offline, than ever before.
But why?
This is mainly due to the country’s recent economic downfall and recession that first hit in 2008. Due to the loss of benefits and pensions, job reductions, and even job loss, many folks became fed up with struggling and had to take matters into their own hands. Some went back to school to shoot for new career options, others became stay-at-home parents to save on child care expenses, and others looked to starting their own businesses and becoming entrepreneurs.
So we now know the why's but what about the what's?
Technology. In addition to many being forced to take up another job or start his or her own business, technology has also been a main reason for the increase in number of small businesses and entrepreneurships. This is because technology—whether you love it or hate it—has given people the flexibility and convenience of taking their work on the go. The availability, accessibility, and convenience of Smartphones, tablets, and laptops have sparked many to be able to telecommute and take their online entrepreneurships with them wherever they go.
Networking. One of the first things to consider is networking. Your business is a no-name and your brand is nothing unless you start getting your name and face out there. Attend local business events, join social media, hand out business cards every chance you get, and just get out and meet people. Make it your goal each week to talk about your business to one other business or one other person. Remember, word-of-mouth is one of the most powerful business and brand recognition tools.
Social Media. Next? Social media. Again, like technology—whether you love it or hate it—it works. The key is consistency. Posting relevant, interesting, unique, and creative posts on a regular, consistent basis will help build up a dedicated audience. That audience could turn into leads, and those leads can turn into customers and revenue. You just have to get started. Start a Facebook fan page and market it. It's fairly cheap to market certain posts and advertise. Having a strong online presence is one of the keys to small business success today.
Funding. We all know this is a topic that makes all business owners and entrepreneurs or potential owners shudder. Maybe you have a great idea for a business or maybe you want to expand or develop your business further, but it always seems to come down to time and money. The truth is, you can get funding. Taking out a small business loan is always an option, and you can even find other businesses to partner with or sponsor you. However, it is strongly recommended that if you consider this option to seek legal guidance.
But what about those of you who don't own their own business? You can still contribute. Maybe this week or weekend you can support local small business by shopping at a corner store, or picking up some of your groceries at a family-owned deli, or visiting that small cafe with the chalkboard sign out front. They will certainly thank you for and appreciate your patronage.
If you've ever thought about starting a business, there's no greater time than the present. Some believe that the market is now flooded with small businesses, online businesses and entrepreneurships, and there aren't any good ideas left. This couldn't be further from the truth.
The moral of this story? If you've got an idea for a product or service, run with it. If you know a small business, support it. Happy Small Business week.
Image credit: © John Leaver | Dreamstime Stock Photos
Written content: © 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010 J. H. Language Solutions
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