The object of social media is to typically let the world know about your brand. However, this national and international attention often leaves out a key demographic – the local community. While larger businesses with locations throughout the world may not think local promotion is worth the time, small local businesses should focus at least part of their social media marketing strategy on local fans.

Local Only Contests

Give locals a fighting chance in promotions by only offering them to fans in certain areas. For instance, if your business is mainly in one city or state, offer the prizes or coupons to just people in those areas. Local fans are more likely to participate if they don’t have to worry about competing with the rest of the nation.

Talk About The Community

The best way to get local fans is by letting them know about your business’s involvement in the community. Set up a community event at your business or participate in a local charity event. Publicize all the details on the social media platform you use. You can even build excitement and ask which fans will be there. This gives fans something more realistic outside of social media, equaling more loyal fans.

Promote Local Talent Or Businesses

Most local talent and even other small businesses have their own social media following. Take the time to partner with them. For instance, a local restaurant who has the local bakery make their desserts could post details and links back to the bakery’s fan page as well. The bakery links back to the restaurant and both gain new fans.

If you are often involved in community events, promote or even sponsor the local talent. Fans of these groups will be interested to find out more about your business, equaling more fans.

Promote From The Inside Out

Social media marketing doesn’t have to start solely online. Give out business cards, pamphlets or even prizes to the customers who visit your business. List the links to the social networks you use. This works well if you offer special “fan only” coupons or discounts to those who become a new fan or follower. This increases your local fan base, which is perfect for any local businesses looking to increase exposure.