GUEST POST: Thinking Outside The Box: Getting Recognized Locally by Sara Simmons

Think small, start local, get noticed. There are several different avenues you can turn to that might generate the local press you want on your business, which may spread & get picked up into national news. These tricks may seem simple, but many entrepreneurs under estimate the power of local press.

1. Get involved with your community:
Are there local clubs, groups or organizations you can affiliate with, that make sense to your business? For example, we are affiliated with the fashion industry, so we are involved in several fashion organizations. Many times, these affiliations host networking events and educational seminars. These are great networking tools because you never know who you will meet that may help you get noticed.

2.Call the local Chambers of Commerce in your city:
Chicago is quite large and broken up into various Chamber(s) of Commerce. Each Chamber has their own list of local retailers and businesses according to industry or expertise. You can download lists online or get a list from your local chamber. More often that not, locals like to support other locals.

3. Contact your City Counsel or Mayor’s Office.
Many times, there are associations within your city that have been established to help local entrepreneurs get started. Your city counsel should have a list of associations that help with funding, mentoring, or general business advice. These are great ways to meet people in various aspects of business and again, you never know how they may help you grow, develop and get noticed.

4. Check out local venues for events that maybe taking place.
Many times, there are fundraising events or holiday events that are taking place locally. These are great ways to get involved for usually very little money. The best part is, as a vendor or sponsor, your company is usually involved in their press releases and media kits on their dime! This is also a great way to get noticed.

5. Contact Local Media on what you are doing:
Local media likes new and refreshing ideas & stories. If you are having a fundraiser or are involved in a community plan, contact your local press and build relationships with the writers and editors this way. There are usually smaller publications that support local businesses.

Sara Simmons is the Designer & Business Manager at CellKeeper Company. They have their own blog which posts local events happening within the Chicago area. Visit www.cellkeeper.com/blog or www.cellkeeper.com.

By Mike Michalowicz, Author of The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur

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