7 free, or low-cost ways you can help a local business during COVID-19

The impact of the Pandemic is having a disastrous effect on small business owners. Many of them are struggling to make payroll, rent and other expenses.

So how can you help them? Here are 7, free or low-cost ways you can help local business owners.

1 – Leave a review. Find them on Google, Facebook and YELP and leave them a positive review on each platform. This will not only boost their confidence and reputation, but can also help them rank higher in search.

2 – Like, Comment and Share their social media posts. Yes, something as simple as hitting the like button on social media can help. The more likes a post gets, the higher it is ranked in the algorithm. Simply put, more likes and shares equals more free exposure for that business!

3 – Flag online errors. Many local business owners have errors in their online profiles, such as hours of operation, broken links or phone numbers, or even closed locations. Most of them have no idea how to fix them. You can alert them to these errors and even “Suggest an edit” on platforms like Google.

4 – Refer a friend. The best way to support a local business is to refer your family and friends. One of the easiest ways is through social media. You can @mention them in a post and maybe provide a few pictures or even a video. This gives them some much needed FREE exposure to your family and friends on your Social Media. Here is a PRO TIP – If you make your post PUBLIC it can be shared by others in your social circle.

5 – Gift certificates. Buying a gift certificate from a local business can give them have a much-needed positive cash flow and help tide them over until the crisis is over. You could redeem them later for yourself, or perhaps even give them out as gifts to your friends and family.

6 – Tip a little extra. Many of those the service industry have had their hours impacted and depend on these tips to get them by. Plus, they are working harder now to ensure your safety as well as theirs. A few extra bucks will go a long way. Consider tipping even if you pick up your order curbside.

7 – Say Thank You. A simple gesture like a thank you card can go a long way and may help brighten their day.