The Benefits of Working with a Local, Independent Business

Local, independent businesses are a key driver in the U.S. economy and account for 99.7% of all employers. There are benefits to working with local businesses that you typically won’t get when working with a large corporation.

Here are five impressive advantages you can expect when you choose to support a local business in your community.

Exceptional Service

Local, independent businesses can give you the one-on-one service and attention you deserve, and that is often impossible for a large corporation to deliver. When calling a local business, you’ll almost always reach a live person, instead of the automated system or voicemail big companies offer. Independent business owners are available and ready when you need them, and they’re often willing to work outside of traditional business hours to help solve your problem.

Personalization

Local, independent businesses typically work closely with their communities and understand the needs of their customers and neighbors. A big advantage is the speed of service; they’re quick to meet your requirements and keep a finger on the pulse of the community so they can offer a personalized experience.

Responsiveness

Big businesses tend to focuson the opportunity with the biggest payoff. As a result, managers are usually insulated from the people using their product or service. In contrast, local business owners are often directly accountable and are in a position to understand and respond quickly when a problem arises – and to learn from the experience!

Specialization

Since large companies ‘think big’ when it comes to customers, many smaller niches are left un-serviced, providing opportunities for local businesses to specialize. These independent businesses are able fill voids and build a reputation for being specialists in their market, which benefits the customer.

Keep Money Local

Circulating money within a community helps it to thrive. A strong network of local funds helps businesses within a community to support each other and to give back to the community as a whole. The 2018 AMEX Local Business Economic Impact Study found that 67 cents of every dollar spent at a local business remains within the community.

As you can see, partnering with a local, independent business helps create diversity in the economy by filling niches that big corporations often ignore. It encourages all business owners to focus on serving their customers directly, personally, and with greater flexibility, to stay competitive. If you want exceptional, personal service, and to support your local community, check out the local businesses in your area.