Participating in the community is a great way to promote your Maui business. Consider any of these seven tips to help Maui—and promote your business at the same time.
- Attend Maui Chamber of Commerce meetings. I can speak to this one personally and have had many positive results by attending Chamber functions. You can network with other business owners and influential members of the community, all while having fun.
- Join a board or committee that you are passionate about. Maui has numerous needs and welcomes professionals who can lend their talents and expertise; do it graciously and the rewards will follow.
- Volunteer for a nonprofit. There are many in Maui that could benefit greatly from you or a representative of your company. Find the one that is a good fit for you.
- Join a local business owners association. Maui has local business owners associations. If you want to promote your business or make alliances with other businesses then joining one is a must.
- Speak at a local business association. In addition to attending local business associations, why not speak at one? If you have something interesting to say this can be a great way to get recognized by other business professionals.
- Sponsor a fundraiser or charity event. By sponsoring a local fundraiser or charity event you can help those in need while also making a name for your business. These types of events can range from a small bake sale to a community gala, depending on your budget.
- Sponsor a local sports team. This may get expensive for some small business owners, but sponsoring a Maui sports team can be great exposure for your company. However, you can claim the expenses as charitable contributions and receive tax benefits.
Word of mouth is the best kind of advertising. When you are known in the community, people are not only more likely to trust you—they'll often refer you to their friends. Community is always about people. People are intuitive and respond positively to genuine caring. When you're sincere about community involvement, you might be surprised at how much your business will benefit and how fast it will grow.
This is wise business.
Chevy Tharp is regional vice president, Hawaiian Islands and Western U.S., for Meridian Business Brokers & Meridian Group Hawai‘i. Tharp is an international business consultant and business broker who specializes in helping people buy, sell and improve businesses. He welcomes you to contact him at chevy@mghawaii.com or (808) 268-6131.