SMALL BUT STRONG: Strategies for Business Success in Rural America

摘要

It's a story that's all too familiar to rural America. Small-town businesses face a future of dwindling populations as younger people move away in search of other opportunities. The use of social-media tools to jump-start dialogue about relevant town issues and create change is an easy, low-cost way for local businesses to improve the overall economic climate in their communities. A big advantage of these social media tools is that, for the most part, they are free. Perhaps the most important benefit of social networking is the feeling of connection it creates. A sound social-media strategy can improve the assets of your community, raise local awareness of your business and create more revenue for your business over time. Blogging is the easiest way to get started in making a difference in your small town. Two social media tools that have particular potential to be community changers are Facebook and Twitter, said Becky McCray, a business owner.