Whether you’re an independent entrepreneur or a member of a franchise system, it is important that you remain an active player within your community. Small business isn’t just about selling your product or service (it never has been!) — it’s also about immersing yourself within the community that you serve, to the point that you become an inseparable, irreplaceable part of the collective whole.

Here are a few ways to start establishing a community presence:

1. Attend public events. Whether it be an event for local business owners or the annual town parade, be there. Mingle. Get to know the people in your community. Once you’ve gotten comfortable, you might consider taking your involvement one step further by actively contributing your time or expertise to a local cause.
2. Hold an open house. Plan a barbecue or an open house at your place of business. Allow non-customers to come out and try your products or services for free or at a reduced cost. Become a true community ambassador by embracing those that live in your local area.
3. Dedicate yourself to a cause that you hold near and dear to your heart. Weed Man franchise owners feel strongly about enhancing the outdoor environment. As a result, many individuals in our network volunteer their time or services to events that are dedicated to beautifying local green spaces. Take a similar approach by participating in (or spearheading!) community events that are meaningful to you and your company’s mission.
4. Take a one-on-one approach. Form bonds with your neighbors and customers outside of a work environment. Get to know the people who have made your business a success and assist them in accomplishing their own community improvement goals.

Success comes in many forms. Often, giving back to the community on a personal level or through your business is one of the greatest successes of all.  Start establishing a strong community presence by immersing yourself in local events and getting involved with meaningful, fulfilling projects.

Check out Weed Man’s Community Sponsorship initiative here.