Almost all successful business owners recognize the importance of the local community to the survival of their venture. Without the support of the local communities, many businesses would never be even able to get off the ground. Jeff Lupient hence points out that it is the responsibility of businesses to show up for their community in times of need. Lupient Automotive Group, for instance, threw a successful fundraiser and raised over $35,000 for the Minneapolis Parks Foundation and Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, in the support of the local community.
Jeff Lupient lists the reasons businesses should participate in community events
In the competitive landscape of today, businesses must expand their dynamics beyond the workplace and strive to engage with the local community. Taking part in community events and initiatives provides business with a platform to both promote the core values of their company, and create a positive impact on society. Certain companies may think that participating in community events is just a waste of time and resources. However, in reality, doing so has many advantages, including:
- Brand exposure: For long term success, all businesses require improved brand exposure and awareness. Supporting community events and initiatives can be a great way for businesses to prove their dedication to the local community. Local customers would start to make connections between the brand and the positive experience they had at community events. Community events also help in getting the word out about a company, and reaching more prospective customers.
- Goodwill: Companies can participate in local festivals, concerts, charity events and so on. Regardless of the type of event, a business takes part in; doing so can help endear people to a company. After all, many modern customers would want to know that the businesses they choose to engage with are not just in it for the money. Proving that a company truly cares about its customers and their community can help build goodwill, and improve customer loyalty.
- Business connections: Getting to know other businesses in the area is another great reason to participate in community events. Business owners must leverage this opportunity to build connections. They may end up finding a new supplier who offers better prices or get into a partnership with another business to explore lucrative opportunities.
- Personal connections: Customers today do not want to feel like just another name in the crowd. Investing in personalization and building personal rapport with the customers would go a long way in encouraging them to do business with the company. Showing up at community events provides a great opportunity to connect with locals on a personal level and build better relationships with them. Hence, the next time they need services or products offered by the company, they will remember speaking with its personnel and the good experience that came along with it.
As per Jeff Lupient, the ways a business can participate in community events are many. For instance, to host a fundraiser for Minneapolis Parks Foundation and Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, part of Lupient’s showroom was cleared, and tables were set up filled with delicious picnic food. A silent auction took place at the event, as the guests waged friendly bids over Minnesota Twins tickets, park passes and nights out on the town. The event showcased Lupient’s dedication to the local parks.