Whatever the nature of your organization is, it is important to establish partnerships with local businesses. These are a great source of support, capable of providing financial assistance, in-kind help and prizes. Here are some ideas for building partnerships with your local businesses:
- Introduce the key members of your organization to local businesses when you do NOT need anything from them. Simply say hello and brief them on the nature and significance of your organization. Ask for the direct contact details of those in charge, especially their names, for your future reference.
- Keep your local businesses informed with your organization’s activities, particularly if you are working to benefit the whole community. Send out a monthly newsletter or email alert about your initiatives and events, so that your local businesses can see for themselves if they can help out in any way.
- Give something back to your local businesses for their investment. While most businesses are happy to contribute directly or indirectly to the community, it delights them if their efforts are remembered. In your organization’s public relations material, produce profiles of those businesses involved in your activities.
- Always thank those local businesses that have helped you in any big or small way, as this helps ensure continued support. In your monthly newsletters or email alerts, let them know the outcomes of your initiatives and events. Tell them that you look forward to working with them again, and wish them all the best.
It is essential to establish partnerships with local businesses if your organization intends to fully integrate into the neighborhood. As both they and you work to benefit the whole community, friendly cooperative relationships can do great wonders. In the next article will be some tips on how to invite major contributions from local businesses.
