Big corporations are everywhere, they are on our high streets and online, many offering the same products! Although they have big budgets it can be hard to find someone to talk to for advice and help. At the other end of the scale a small business can offer the personal service that large companies lack. So, what other advantages are there to buying from a small business?
Their reputation is everything
A small business rises or falls on its reputation. If people are unhappy with their service or products you will soon know about it! Word of mouth recommendations are the life blood of small businesses so it is vital that they build up a trustworthy reputation.
They can provide a more personal service
Effective customer service is important to any customer. Small businesses do not have the layers of management that makes it hard to find the right person to talk to. They also don’t have masses of corporate policy to hide behind if something goes wrong. We have all been there, sitting on the phone, trying in vain to get through to an actual person to help us! These barriers are broken down when dealing with a small business. They are often easier to contact and have more flexibility to meet your needs, having the time to talk to you and find out what you want. Ultimately the service or product they provide is their responsibility, so they are more invested in making sure they get it right. It isn’t just a job for them, their whole business depends on their performance.
They can be better value for money
Small businesses often don’t have the large overheads that larger companies have, so they can pass these savings on to their customers. With less staff to pay for and sometimes no costs for premises to factor in, this can mean they can be more competitive on price than their bigger rivals.
You can find more unique products and services
Finding the perfect gift for someone is always challenging. There are times when we just buy the generic box of chocolates from the supermarket or the same old gift sets. Small businesses provide a whole wealth of products that are often unique to them. A gift for a loved one that is different or a one-off piece can mean so much more. We don’t want to live in a world where we all own the same things from the same shops!
They are part of the community
Small businesses can play a huge role in their local area, sponsoring and supporting events and sports teams, for example. Often businesses come together and support each other, recommending other companies to their customers. Local businesses are often proud of where they live and enjoy the support of other locals as they try to grow.
With so many great small businesses out there why not give one of them a try next time you need to make a purchase.
Small Business
love local
