Celebrating Small Businesses
Small businesses truly are the lifeblood of our economy. I've had the privilege to witness this firsthand in the past three weeks by visiting with small business owners in Portland and Denver while participating in the Deluxe Small Business Heroes Tour. The Heroes Tour was designed to provide face-to-face helpful information and friendly advice to small businesses who want to improve their online marketing.
I came away with a renewed respect for small business owners. Their creativity is inspiring with businesses that range from pet massage to unique bakery concepts to more traditional businesses like plumbers and painters. They are resilient in their ability to weather all kinds of obstacles like the lack of access to capital and reduced consumer spending. Yet, they remain passionate about what they do from the perfect cupcake to perfect paint job. While they are as unique as snowflakes, they all have one thing in common - the desire to run a successful business.
For those of us who make a living marketing products and services to small businesses, my advice is simple. Be as real and honest as they are. That sounds simple, but it takes discipline. Step out of your corporate environment and really get to know what makes them tick. It will change your outlook and refresh your marketing approach.
Check out these stories by small businesses from the Deluxe Small Business Heroes Tour.
Director, Strategy