Small towns are generally close-knit communities where you stick out like a sore thumb if you are not a local and haven’t lived there for generations. This makes it very difficult to sell yourself and your services, as the store owners will most likely be set in their ways as they probably use the same CPA for decades.
A major positive is that you may only need one breakthrough because word of mouth travels fast in these communities, and good referrals is the way to grow. Keep in the back of your mind that bad news also travels fast, which could destroy any progress you do make.
The key to succeeding in a small town is visibility, and this comes in a multitude of options.
1) Location
Open a store in town on a popular street that has the most foot traffic. Having a physical location rather than only being online will allow locals to see you and feel more comfortable in approaching you.
2) Community Groups
It is important to become a recognized face in the town as it will instigate people to begin talking about who you are, and they will feel more comfortable around you. Showing up at volunteering events, church events, and town hall talks will give you great exposure to people in the community.
3) Morning Coffee and Afternoon Lunch Spots
Quickly become a regular by getting a coffee at the same place every morning at the same time – this can also be applied for lunch. This is a great way to meet new potential clients. Also, if you are a daily customer at someone else’s business there are chances that they might use yours too.
4) Capitalize on Your Involvement
When you have started to get recognition and the locals have gotten comfortable with you, share some expertise and advice. Start up your own local group and share with them some tax tips every week that they can benefit from. This will build credibility and trust, hopefully leading to more members and eventually clients.
Have any other tips to share? Leave a comment!
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