When you start a new business, it’s important to remember that your most valuable resource is probably your local community. Likewise, as your business grows, it can also become an equally vital asset to your community. While not every company is locally focused, building one that is centered on your community can be a very rewarding experience. That’s why Van Tec Marketing has put together the following information to help you begin planning and running your community-oriented company.

Launch a New Business

Starting a business in the United States is surprisingly easy. In fact, you can start doing business in your own name right away without making any filings. However, chances are you will want to register a business with the state. For example, you may decide to form a limited liability company. According to the Missouri Secretary of State, the process is easy.

If you ever want to do business under a different name, you need to file for a doing-business-as name. This can be great for expanding into new markets or taking advantage of opportunities such as high-value domain names. Of course, there is more to running a business than registering with the government. You will need a business plan, a bookkeeping process and some capital to get started.

Engage With Your Community

Once you have the basics out of the way, you can start thinking about ways to participate with the members of your community. Create a welcoming website that explains your community goals and implement a digital marketing plan focused on your local area. Google My Business is a great tool for achieving this. Another great strategy is becoming active with local review sites and regularly asking customers to evaluate your products or services.

Look for local events that you can attend and help develop. For example, you could sponsor a fun run or a local kids’ sports league. Making your business more visible in the community often helps earn new customers.

Support Your Community

As your business begins to grow, think about ways you can give back to your community. One great way to do this is to support a local charity like Father Bob’s Outreach. Philanthropy is always a rewarding undertaking, but it is especially meaningful when it is helping your neighbors.

You can also set up a volunteering program with your team. You could dedicate a certain amount of time each year for your team to spend volunteering. Alternatively, you may set up an incentive system to reward team members for taking the charitable initiative themselves.

Get Involved With Other Business Leaders

Finally, you should think about connecting with other business leaders in the area. Coordination helps maintain a thriving local business community. Consider joining the area chamber of commerce to support this aim.

Participation in local networking events can also prove useful. You can form many valuable relationships by getting involved, and you may find ways to support other budding businesses. You could also consider mentoring local entrepreneurs or students who are interested in business. As you become a success in your community, you can find lots of ways to give back.

Stay Sharp

By now, you’ve probably already gotten a feel for all the moving parts that go into a business. As the saying goes, we never stop learning – and that goes double for entrepreneurs. That’s why, in addition to seeking advice from fellow business owners, you might want to consider going back to school. Pursuing an MBA will provide you with unique insights in your field, and if you choose to study through an online program, you’ll have the added benefit of being able to learn at your own pace. That means you won’t have to take valuable time away from your business to focus on your studies. Also, as the owner of your business, you’ll be able to take what you’re learning and implement those lessons in real time.

Discover More About Running a Community-Oriented Business

If you are interested in becoming an entrepreneur, it’s a great idea to form a symbiotic relationship with your local community. In addition to providing you with opportunities for different business partnerships, it also allows you to give back to your community in many valuable ways. Explore the joys of running a community-oriented business today!

Van Tec Marketing handles all of your business’ marketing needs, so you don’t have to. Whether your business is starting from scratch, or just needing a refresh, we will maximize your reach to your desired audience. Call 937.823.6600.

Article by Emma Grace Brown 

emmagracebrown.com