For chambers and local business associations, member spotlights are an excellent way to bring attention to local businesses. However, in today’s social media world your run-of-the-mill post about who they are and when they’re open just isn’t effective.
You need something more.
3 Ways to Get Local Businesses Noticed
Hit with a Hot Visual
If the business creates or sells something that is visually appealing (like food or floral arrangements) or undeniably cute (like puppies or kids clothes), use it to their advantage. Start your highlight with a captivating image and use pictures throughout.
If your business produces something that’s not all that sexy, like reliable accounting services, use a picture that grabs attention but also instills the essence of the business and what they’re trying to accomplish. For instance, an accountant wants to be trusted and viewed as capable in order to build his/her business. Use a picture that speaks to that. Stay away from boring shots of the business owners lined up against a wall. That does nothing to instill confidence or rally action.
Craft a Memorable Headline
Instead of claiming to be the best whatever in your town — everyone would say that about themselves, wouldn’t they? — incorporate the business’ unique selling proposition in your headline. For instance, if they are a restaurant that serves giant slices of pizza, don’t use:
“Best Pizza in Town!”
That’s boring and overdone. Not to mention it may anger other businesses. Instead try,
“Pizza slices as big as your head.”
Then show images of customers holding them up to their heads. It doesn’t say anything about how delicious they are, but it does make an impression, which is what you need in order to convince people to try them out.
Ask Them to Guest Post About Something They Know
If you have a blog or a resources page, instead of writing a cookie-cutter member spotlight, ask your local business to write or record something they know about. This allows them to shine and elevates them as a source of information for your community. For instance, a local florist could record a video about the basics of floral arranging or a local bait shop could create a checklist of things you need for your first fishing expedition. This gives businesses exposure and you’re able to present their knowledge in a way that benefits your audience.
How do you show off your local businesses?
