Good idea: Local Businesses Band Together to Create Opportunities

   

  In spite of the economy showing signs of recovery, the local business industry needs more support now than ever. Our country did not begin on the backs of British corporations but on the backs of the immigrants who relocated and built businesses in America. While things are beginning to look up, remember to try to purchase as much as you can from local store owners, farms, and kitchens. 

  Here is something that I love to see, local businesses banding together to support each other! Based on the Salem 'Til Nine events from this past holiday, some things have been changed, but the idea remains the same. Numerous local businesses have signed up to be a part of this event. They are offering special promotions for customers on Saturday, March 24th from 11 AM until 2 PM. Keep checking this link for an update on businesses participating in this event! 

The Importance of Transparency in Every Business

    Do you like secrets? Do you like thinking someone is not telling the whole truth? No? Most people don't like secrets. Even if it has nothing to do with them. The Better Business Bureau uses the idea of transparency as a method of measuring, among other things, the reliability of a business for consumers. It is vitally important for small business, corporations, and non-profit organizations to maintain the idea of transparency. So what is transparency? According to Wikipedia (yes, of all people, I'm using it as a source!), transparency is

1. Openness: It is the capability of the public to access information about the business. The public knows not everyone is perfect. If you have skeletons, admit it. Part of running an organization is experimentation. If someone asks a question, answer it directly. Out in the open. Be honest and upfront. The less you have to hide, it is less likely that you get caught in a lie. 
2. Communication: With the onset of social media, there are more and more ways of communicating with your customers, employees, and supporters. Why not learn them? Many businesses have websites and Facebook pages and they don't use them properly. Hire a social media consultant. Going to television and newspaper is the old way of doing things and many people don't even bother to turn on their TV or read the newspaper anymore. Where do they get their information? Online. Make it your strategy now.
3. Accountability: Ok, you messed up. Now fess up! If you admit mistakes, your business will appear more reachable to the customer. I know. It's opposite what you were taught in business school, right? Flubbing up occasionally should not hurt. As long as you create new policies or standards to prevent the problem from occurring again. Sometimes, it is just as simple as an apology. Other times, it may create a new way of thinking about how decide to conduct business in the future. 

  If you find out your support system is complaining about something, to friends or acquaintances, listen up! One of these lines is broken and it needs to be fixed as soon as possible! The faster these three ideas behind your transparency are fixed, the more business and clients you will receive!