Most businesses do things that make them special, such as helping the community, supporting local schools or winning awards, but they don't tell anyone. To raise your profile, write down what you do that's different or good, then put it on your website and in your marketing. People's view of you changes, you stand out, and some of them will buy from you.
What a Dragons' Den-style pitch taught me
I was once asked to speak at a local event run in a Dragons' Den style, where six new local businesses pitched for £1,000 to grow their business. Each had to explain what they did, how it helped the local area and what they'd spend the money on.
The winner was a great start-up, but all six had something unique to offer. In their pitches, every one of them highlighted the special things they did. They'd clearly thought about it.
Afterwards I looked at some of their websites. Many of the great things they'd talked about weren't there at all.
Don't hide the good stuff
As owners, we often do things that are quite special but don't shout about them. Maybe it's a British thing. But every business needs to make money, and if you're doing something positive, often at your own expense, people should know.
- Helping the community? Put it on your website.
- Supporting schools or people with special needs? Shout about it.
- Going above and beyond, and won an award for it? It has to be on your website.
Try this
Imagine you're pitching for that £1,000. What would you say to impress the judges? Write it down. That's what should be on your website and in your marketing.
When you include these things, people's view of you changes. You stand out, and some of the people looking will come and buy from you. It's not all about the money, but it helps.
Your customers can help too. See how to turn customers into fans and how to stand out in your industry.
Frequently asked questions
How do I raise my business profile locally? Tell people what makes you different: community work, awards, how you go above and beyond. Put it on your website, in your marketing and in conversations at local events.
Should I put community work on my website? Yes. It shows what you stand for, helps you stand out and builds trust with local customers.
Want help raising your profile?
Book a free strategy call and we'll find the things that make you special and how to show them off.