Innovative Ways to Support Your Independents

How To Support Your Independents

• Support Independents on Social Media - There is no denying the impact social media can have on the success of a business. We have all heard of small businesses that have become successful through social media alone, so spread the word if you are impressed with an independent. You can tag them on your social media page, check in using a location tag and leave glowing reviews. You can also share their social media pages with others.

• Write Positive Google Reviews - If you have a spare minute or two, consider writing a positive Google review about a business you enjoyed using. A lot of people head to Google to look at reviews before shopping with an independent shop, as a way of verifying the business as a good one. A good review is often all it takes to sway them into making a purchase.

• Shop Locally - There is no shortage of shops out there, many of which are international brands and household names. However, one of the best things you can do to support your independents is to shop locally. Instead of heading to a well known supermarket or a large department store, make an effort to find retailers and smaller independent shops in your local area.

• Recommend Independents to Friends and Family - One of the most effective (and easiest) ways to support your independents is to recommend them to friends and family. If you are pleased with a product or happy with a service, let others know. Not only does this get the name of the independent out there, but it encourages people to pay them a visit over a more established business.

As you can see, there are a number of ways to support independent businesses. Whether you support them on social media by tagging your location or make an effort to shop locally wherever possible, every effort helps independent businesses. It’s all about spreading the word and encouraging others to check them out. If you have another way of supporting independents, let us know.

Find out more about why it's important to support local businesses, and follow our Indie trail to get to know some of Nottingham's best independent shops.