Local Links: How our magazines connect your business with the community
Posted on 12th September 2024
The latest official figures say almost two thirds of UK businesses are worried about how they will perform this month. The most reported concern is falling demand. If you’re a business owner now’s a good time to connect with the customers who are right on your doorstep.
Building strong links with your local community is much more than a ‘nice to have’. Businesses and customers are more aware of the need to work in partnership to support the community and grow sustainably.
Business goals can’t simply focus on profits anymore. Customers are basing important buying decisions on companies’ social and environmental approaches. Strategic thinking now has to recognise that businesses need to work with their local communities.
Why local links matter
Community engagement offers significant benefits that can help your business weather economic storms and grow.
Local loyalty. When you build strong local partnerships your customers are more likely to continue buying from you. They will want to support you when they know you genuinely care about the community and the wellbeing of employees.
Employee retention. While the region is faring better than other parts of the UK for employment and skills, keeping valued employees is still a priority. When you build a business with a strong community presence you can attract talent and improve employee engagement.
Productivity. Research shows we’re all more productive at work when we’re happy. Job satisfaction and productivity increase when employees feel their personal values fit with their work lives. Strong engagement with the local community shows your business is playing its part.
Development and growth. Having a broad outlook provides new opportunities and encourages innovation. It’s good for personal growth and satisfaction too.
How advertising in local magazines builds community links
We know from our own experience that it works. We are very proud that many of our customers have been advertising in our titles for years. That’s because it helps them build their contacts in the community, which is good for their businesses and for sales.
It’s all heart. People really care about where they live and local magazines are right at the heart of it. They can read about local news, events, culture and history. They’ll see your advertisements alongside information that really matters to them. You also have ideal opportunities to catch people’s attention with themed advertisements that fit in with local activities and events.
Telling your story. Advertorials alongside your advertisements can also tell your story. You can explain your local connections and highlight how you contribute to the local community.
Being memorable. People keep their copies of local publications to re-read and share. They’re much more likely to see and remember your company name and the products and services you provide.
Making a first impression. Your advertisement could be one of the first things new residents see when they move in to the area. It’s an ideal opportunity to let them know how you can help before your competitors.
Building trust. People like and trust their local media so you can build your business reputation and your brand by association. They value local publications more than social media for relevance, reliability, objectivity and transparency, which is all good for your business.
Showcasing your community. Local publications are often well-established and thoughtfully curated. Design, print and production are high quality too. They provide an excellent showcase of everything you do locally from employment to supporting local good causes.
Speak with our friendly team and we’ll help you plan your strategy to engage with your local community in print and in our digital publications too.
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