Do you have a new business and you are seeking ways to build a thriving community? Starting your small business and getting it from having zero customers to your dream number is not an easy feat. Many people rise as entrepreneurs, but only a few remain in the industry after a long time. Only a few get the desired numbers for their business and customer base for those who remain.

One of the major ways to grow your business and make sure you remain standing in the entrepreneurial industry after a long time is community building. Building a community around your business is like having a family around what you do. They are your first line of customers, your free publicity. Every business that wants to thrive and be successful needs a bustling community behind its products and services.

Most small business owners never get a thriving community because they go about it the wrong way. Here are a few steps you can take to build your community.

1. Start With your Team:
The common saying that goes – use what you have to get what you don’t have is very applicable here. You don’t need to look far to start your community. Start with your team members. They are your first set of community members. Make them understand that they are not just working with you to make money but also building a business with you, a brand that people can associate with. If you can get your team on board, then you can begin to extend your tentacles outside of your business to other people outside.

2. Introduce your Customers and Investors to more:
Most traditional customers and investors are not used to being part of a community. They mostly just buy their desired products and return whenever they need more—the same thing with investors. As a small business owner building a thriving community, it is your job to let them know that they are part of something bigger. Let them know that your business is not in a hurry to collect their hard-earned money but somewhat interested in knowing them on a deeper level so they can better be served.

Customers like to feel special. They want to know they are just another name on your balance sheet. They want to be convinced that they are more and that they matter to you. As a small business owner, it is your job to ensure that they feel this way. And this is done by adding them to your community, which brings us to our next point.

3. Use Social Media:
This is perhaps the most important point here. Community building is more of an online activity than anything else. Create social media accounts for your business. Use Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and other platforms. These will go a long way in pushing your business forward and not only that.

It will also help in building your community. When you get customers and investors, you can direct them to your social media pages to engage there. You can even encourage them to post your product on their social media and add a nice caption. When they do this, you share it and encourage your other customers to share. This is how to build a thriving community.

Continue reading here, https://www.sme360.ng/2021/03/13/building-a-thriving-community-around-your-business/