Successful businesses don’t just focus on their own bottom line. They also prioritize adding value to their communities.

As a small business owner or entrepreneur, it’s essential that you understand how to effectively engage with your local community, create lasting relationships, and growing your brand.

By following a few key tips, you can make a positive impact on those around you while also building your own business. In this blog post, we’ll explore some practical ways to add value to your community and become a respected member of your local business community.

These tips are from a conversation that Ryan Stewman, a very successful business owner and founder of the Apex Entourage) had with Scott Simons, an investor and very successful entrepreneur and business owner.

Be a giver

One of the most important things you can do when participating in your local community is to focus on giving rather than just taking. If you’re constantly posting about yourself and your business, people will quickly tire of it. Instead, look for ways to add value to the community without expecting anything in return. Share your knowledge, offer advice, and connect people who may benefit from knowing each other.

Give without wanting anything in return.

While it’s natural to want to eventually gain business from the community, your initial focus should be on adding value. When you give freely and generously without expecting a return on your investment, you’ll build trust and credibility with those around you. This makes it more likely that they’ll turn to you when they need help.

Seek to help others.

Don’t always be the one asking for help; instead, take the focus off of yourself and seek to help others as well. When you offer assistance without expecting anything in return, you demonstrate that you’re a valuable member of the community. Look for ways to offer support, whether that means volunteering your time, sharing helpful resources, or just being a kind and positive force in people’s lives.

Look for ways to uplift others

In addition to helping others, be sure to share positive news and helpful tips with those in your community. When you shine the light on others, you become a respected member of the community who is known for lifting others up. This can lead to increased visibility and opportunities for your business, as people are more likely to think of you first when they need help.

Get involved

When there are opportunities to serve in your community, whether that means volunteering for a local charity or attending a networking event, take advantage of them. Don’t be a “wallflower” and hide in the background; instead, get out there and make connections. Building a strong network of contacts is key to growing your business, and participating in community events is a great way to do that.

Ask for help

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Whether you have a question about a particular business strategy or need advice on how to navigate a particular situation, seek out the knowledge and expertise of others in your community. When you have a question, chances are others are wondering the same thing. By asking for help when you need it, you’ll create deeper connections and build stronger relationships with those around you.

Engaging with your local community is essential for small business owners and entrepreneurs who want to grow their brand and build lasting connections. By focusing on giving, helping, and uplifting others, you can become a respected member of your community and add value in meaningful ways. Get involved in events and opportunities to serve, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. When you prioritize adding value to your community, you’ll find that success naturally follows.

Related Article:

Building a Business from Scratch: Using Community for Growth