Self Promotion: It's Actually Okay

You may feel awkward talking about yourself or your business. You don’t want to be seen as full of yourself, but you know you have to put yourself out there.

Sometimes standing out can seem like an insurmountable task, especially for rural and small-town businesses. But therein lies the opportunity - the quieter streets and tighter communities can actually be your strategic advantage online.

Promote Relentlessly, But Promote Smart

The entire idea around this article comes from a post I saw by Justin Welsh, a very well known LinkedIn influencer and solopreneur. Justin promotes the idea of self-promotion - a daily shoutout about what you do and why it matters. The principle is solid, but let's dial it into context.

Showcase Your Work

Your work is more than a service or product; it's part of the makeup of your community. Share stories of how your local products are crafted, the history behind a service, or how your business contributes to the fabric of your town.

Personalize Your Brand

In a small town, your brand is synonymous with your reputation. Infuse your brand messaging with the same sincerity and warmth you'd extend to a neighbor. This creates authentic connections that resonate far beyond the screens.

Voice Your Opinions

Take a stand on issues that affect your community. It's not about being divisive; it's about demonstrating that your business isn't just a bystander but an active participant in town life.

Share Your Thought Process

Give your customers a peek into your decision-making. Why do you choose local suppliers, or what goes into your pricing strategy? This transparency builds trust, and trust is the currency of repeat business in small communities.

Solve Problems Publicly

Don't just solve problems; tell the world about them. Did you find a way to keep deliveries moving during a snowstorm, or did you adjust your hours to help with the town event? That's digital content that doesn't just promote but also connects.

The Outcome of Consistent Promotion

As you put yourself out there, remember, reactions will vary, and that's okay. Each reaction serves a purpose:

- Love: Customers who love what you do will flock to you. Cherish and cultivate these relationships.

- Hate: It's a part of exposure. As Welsh suggests, "who cares?" You're not here to please everyone, just the ones who resonate with your values.

- Join: Other local businesses might see an ally in you. This network can amplify your collective voices.

- Follow: Students of your methods, other entrepreneurs who look up to you, can become allies and advocates.

- Ignore: And some will ignore you. That's alright; focus on those who are engaging.

Daily Digital Marketing Tips for the Rural Entrepreneur

1. Content Calendar: Plan your posts around community events, seasons, and local happenings to stay relevant.

2. Engagement: Respond to comments, messages, and reviews. In a small town, every conversation can lead to a sale.

3. Visuals: Use images and videos that feature your community’s natural beauty. Your town’s charm can be your unique selling proposition.

4. Email Marketing: Keep a regular newsletter that not only sells but tells stories - events, town victories, and customer features.

5. Collaborations: Partner with other local businesses for cross-promotion. It's community over competition.

6. Learning: Stay updated on digital trends, but filter what’s applicable to your community. Not all trends are one-size-fits-all, especially in a small town setting.

In the end, promoting your small town business daily isn't about saturating feeds with your presence; it's about putting your narrative into the social media world in a way that's as inviting as your hometown's welcome sign. So go ahead, share your story, and watch the growth that happens as a result!