Sometimes we get stuck thinking the only thing we can do to support a small business is to purchase from them.
And yeah, no one is going to turn down a sale, but there are tons of other ways you can support a small business for free. Whether you’ve worked with them or not, you can show up for them in small but meaningful ways to support their growth.
There are countless ways to show appreciation—here’s how to support a small business for free today.
1. Create User-Generated Content
The absolute easiest way to support a small business is to post about their products or services and tag them.
Post photos or videos using their products or services, write blog posts, or feature them in your newsletter. Then, encourage others to engage with your content about the business.
We love the idea of writing blogs because you’re introducing them to your audience while also giving them a backlink!
2. Leave an Online Review
If you’ve worked with them in the past, leave a review on Google, Yelp, Facebook, or simply email it to them to use on their website.
By leaving an online review, you:
- Help other people decide if they want to work with this business
- Improve their SEO (especially if you include keywords in your review!)
- Make the business owner smile 😊
3. Engage Online
Follow their social media accounts on Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, etc., and like, comment, and share content. You could also join their email list to stay up to date on their work. If the business posts blogs, engage with their blog content by commenting thoughtfully or sharing on Pinterest.
Some creative ways to engage with a business online are:
- Answer polls or quizzes
- Participate in challenges or contests
- Ask questions on posts
4. Participate in Events
Attend free events or webinars hosted by the business. You’re supporting their event and you’ll probably learn something new!
5. Become an Affiliate
If the company offers an affiliate program AND you’ve used their product or service before, join it! Not only are you incentivized to share their offer, but you will probably gain access to resources to help you do it.
Curious who we’re affiliates for? View a list of our faves!
6. Advocate and Support Policies
Vote for local initiatives that help small businesses thrive and support local business groups or chambers by participating or sharing their resources.
7. Connect Them With Your Network
We always love a referral! Introduce them to potential collaborators, contractors, or clients. Share leads or opportunities that align with their business. We all succeed when we support one another.
8. Celebrate Their Wins
Congratulate milestones (anniversaries, awards, product launches, etc.) online. Comment on wins posts or share to your stories to help them celebrate.
9. Help Them Learn About Their Audience
A little caveat to this one… Only offer feedback if they ask. No one wants unsolicited advice about how to run their business 🙃
But if they ask for feedback or post a survey, participate! Share your honest opinion about what works well, what could improve, and what you want to see from them in the future.
10. Advocate Offline
Word of mouth is one of the most effective ways to grow a business. Tell friends, family, or coworkers about your favorite local or online businesses and encourage them to support the business, too. The more people who know about the business, the faster it will grow.
11. Collaborate Creatively
Invite them to be a guest on your podcast, blog, or social media live. You could also partner with them for giveaways or challenges. You’re building each other’s audiences!
12. Use Their Branding or Merch
If they sell products, use them! Someone might see your tote bag while you’re shopping and ask where you got it from. If you’re wondering how to support a small business for free, this is it.
How to Support a Small Business for Free
There are tons of ways you can support a small business for free. Sometimes, a simple message cheering them on is what they need to keep going.
If you would like to support Duo, please follow us on Instagram, join our email list, and keep reading our blog! We love and appreciate you!!
FAQs About How to Support a Small Business for Free
What do small businesses struggle with the most?
Many small businesses struggle to be seen online. Bigger brands rank higher in search results, and it’s difficult for small businesses to compete. However, things are changing now that AI is in play—it actually benefits small businesses!
How do reviews actually help a small business?
Online reviews build trust with potential customers and improve search engine visibility. Positive reviews can directly lead to more sales and stronger credibility. They are immensely helpful for small businesses!
Can I help a business even if I don’t know them personally?
Absolutely! Engaging with their content, sharing posts, or participating in their online community can help expand their reach to new audiences.
Can I support multiple small businesses at once?
Yes! You can spread your support by sharing posts, writing reviews, or recommending different businesses to your network. Small actions make a big difference.
How can I connect a small business to new opportunities?
Introduce them to potential partners, collaborators, or influencers in your network, share leads, or recommend them in professional groups or forums. It’s as simple as that!
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