Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. We realize that many small businesses have experienced challenges over the past two years. However, working with small business owners every day, I see that they are quick to recover, too, when they utilize the right tools.

The U.S. Small Business Administration’s biannual Economic Bulletin on Small Businesses stated: “Two crucial small business indicators, self-employment and proprietors’ income, had historic declines in 2020. Both experienced very fast recoveries by early 2021.” From our chamber’s point of view, virtual connections and marketing through social media played a large part in small businesses’ ability to stay connected to their customers and grow their customer base.

The article “Making the cut: Pittsburgh Dave opens barbershop in Ross” (Dec. 27, TribLIVE) highlights the positive impact Facebook and Instagram has on Steel City Barber Lounge’s success and client growth. Chambers of commerce across the country recognize how important social media marketing is for small businesses. When best utilized, tools such as Facebook Groups and Ads can help small businesses reach audiences well beyond their primary geographic reach, as well as find support for challenges they face.

Chambers play a critical role in assisting small businesses to enhance the skills they need to successfully market their products and services on social media. We encourage all small businesses to take advantage of the workshops chambers and other business associations offer to help them navigate the future of social media marketing.

Chris Heck

Moon

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