Why You Should Do Business with Small Business!

I recently read an article on the Small Business Association (SBA) website outlining some interesting facts on small businesses in America:

http://www.rlrouse.com/small-businesses.html    10 Interesting facts about American Small Businesses

While these statistics are great, it got me to thinking about what the real benefits are to doing business with Small Business. 

Many times we hear the phrase “shop local”.  It is touted as the next best way to keep money within your community and help keep small businesses operating.  While this is certainly true, I believe there are even more reasons to “shop” small businesses.

Here are 5 Basic Reasons Doing Business with Small Business Makes Sense:

1.  Customer Service – This had to make number 1 on my list.  Small Businesses strive to treat their customers like their “community”.  They are willing to go the extra mile to deliver personal service.  Most importantly, when problems or issues do occur, your concerns are not answered by some automated system or string of customer relations “specialists”.  The chain of command is much shorter and issues are dealt with by a real person that has the authority to really help solve your problem.
2. Commitment to Quality – Small Business owners want and need you as a customer.  Most do not have large, wide spread, customer bases.  To put it in direct terms, they cannot afford to lose you or risk their hard-earned reputation.  One lost customer can really make a difference to them.
3. Pride in Their Business – Owners of Small Businesses have a fundamental sense of pride and accomplishment in their “creation”.  They believe in their product and service with a fierce passion.  While I know this is not exclusive to small business, it is definitely at the core of the small business owner. 
4. Building Community – Small Business Owners are willing, and perceive it as vital, to build local connections.  They are committed to creating a reciprocal network with other small businesses.  A Small Business Network strengthens existing small businesses and creates a welcoming environment to new ones.
5. Niche Market – Many Small Businesses are able to fill a void left by larger companies.  Ever been to a “quirky” clothing shop or a small bistro?  How about an “eclectic” furniture store or local coffee shop?  These small business owners identified a need, created a solution to that need, and launched a small business to meet that need. 

So, is doing business with Small Business really “Smart Business”?  I think so!  Remember, each time you use a small business to buy a product or use a service, you are not only aiding in their success, you are also enjoying some real benefits yourself!   So, SHOP SMALL!

 Kimberly