How to Engage in Your Community as a Coffee Shop
Local coffee shops can be a fixture in the community. They don't become that way just by existing, however. To become a fixture in your community, you need to engage in your community! Here's how you can do that.
1. Start with Schools
Local schools are a big part of the community. You can better engage in your community by getting involved with schools. One way to do this is by offering a small discount or double punches on their punch cards for wearing school colors. Another way you could do this is by telling school guidance counselors about job openings. You can hire local students! Schools are a great way to get involved in your community.
2. Go to Events
Events like farmers' markets, high school football games, fairs, and festivals are perfect for engaging in the community. Even if you don't have a mobile stand or cart, you can still attend these events and publicize your business. Hand out flyers or coupons. It's a great way to bring your coffee shop to the community.
3. Host Events
Hosting events is a perfect way to get customers into your coffee shop. Try things like karaoke nights, espresso tasting, board game nights, or even open mic nights. You could even rent out your shop as a venue for weddings, parties, and other events. This will allow you to transform your coffee shop into a major part of the community.
4. Sponsor Teams
Local sports teams are always looking for sponsors. They're a big part of communities, especially suburbs. Sponsoring a sports team allows you to publicize your business in a way that doesn't feel like an ad. It'll be on the back on their jerseys!
5. Get in the News
Local news papers and blogs love covering local businesses. Are you doing something special and different with your business? Find the contact information for your local news outlets and tell them about it. You could write a formal press release or just pitch a basic story to the reporter. If you want more information about writing a formal press release, this is a great resource.
6. Volunteer
There are always opportunities to volunteer in your local community! Bring a group of employees to a food bank or homeless shelter. This is a great way to engage in a way that serves your community.
7. Use Your Social Media
Social media is a vital asset for small businesses. You can publicize your business at no extra cost to you. Use your social media to humanize your coffee shop. Interact with your followers and offer them incentives for following you. This will make your business seem more friendly and approachable and that's what makes loyal customers.
Engaging in your community is a vital and important part of making your coffee shop a fixture in the community. When people can see your business as a big part of local culture, customer loyalty will improve. These tips for how to engage in your community as a coffee shop are sure to help your business become a fixture in the community.
