5 Ways SMBs Can Increase Their Competitiveness
Every small and local business owner understands that their competitors aren’t just other small businesses. There are major brands in every city and town throughout the country, which means you’ll have to contend with other local businesses as well as companies with large marketing budgets and much greater brand awareness.
However, that doesn’t mean as a small business owner, you can’t have the advantage over your competitors, including the larger companies in your sector. Read on to find out how.
1. Managed IT Services
An external managed IT team typically has a diverse set of skills and experience. The benefits of this mean removing the need to employ staff to manage IT services would take over the continuous maintenance and monitoring of all your internal IT services, reducing downtime and allowing you to do what you do with all of your information and systems ready to back you up.
It is also cost-effective for small to medium-sized businesses with enterprise-level IT services tailored to your business model at a price point geared towards SMBs. For this reason, an increasing number of businesses are choosing to outsource their IT to a local provider of IT services in Johnson County.
2. Build a Digital Presence
It’s easier than ever for small businesses to establish a large digital presence thanks to digital marketing. Traditional ads used to be an expensive way to get your name out there. Today, however, there are several free or low-cost methods for gaining more customers.
Organic social media marketing is a fantastic way to expand your online presence, connect with customers on their preferred sites, and share your company’s distinct voice and personality. Compared to traditional TV and radio ads, social media can allow you to reach more people for less than ever before.
3. Network with Other Local Businesses
Form alliances with other small businesses. Networking with those in similar positions is one way for small businesses to become more successful. You won’t be able to compete with big companies’ wide variety of goods and services, but if you have preferred suppliers or can refer people, you’ll be able to sell more to consumers.
If you’re looking for bigger customers, you might consider forming a partnership with other local businesses for large ventures, as you’ll be able to pool resources.
4. Loyalty Programs
Although several large companies offer customer loyalty programs or memberships, you can develop a customer loyalty program for your small company that will entice consumers to return.
Be sure to emphasize the local business aspect so that consumers feel good about supporting a local business while still receiving something.
5. Branding
Every SMB owner worth their salt knows the importance of consistent, impactful branding, and this is one area you can really make an impression. Hire a graphic designer to help you develop a logo or slogan and colorway that instantly resonates with everyone. Take into account you need it to be impactful in real life as well as digitally. Consider how you can use your branding around your company and on products and all the platforms you are active on online and social media.
Being a small business needn’t be a barrier to success. By getting creative with the skills and knowledge at your disposal, you can create a huge impact to rival even the largest conglomerates.
