One of the many challenges entrepreneurs face is how to properly market themselves and their products. The Big StartUp “Small Business Connections: Marketing Meets Microfinancing” nationwide tour, a joint venture between the New York Stock Exchange, Yelp, and micro and small-business lender Accion, aims to help small business owners develop the skills and know-how necessary to succeed in their unique industries. Volunteer experts and coaches in fields as different as marketing and law offer expertise and advice to help entrepreneurs succeed. The Big StartUp tour will next be stopping in Jamaica Plain on August 22nd, hosted at Accion microloan recipient-owned restaurant Bella Luna, at 284 Amory Street.
We are offering a sneak peek of some of the advice and guidance that will be presented at Wednesday’s workshop. Here are some of Yelp’s best tips for cultivating a strong online presence:
- The most successful businesses on Yelp focus on providing great customer service, not soliciting reviews. Word of mouth will take care of itself. Always respond to positive reviews with gratitude and hospitality.
- Don’t over focus on any single review. If a negative review is posted, respond with apologies and suggestions for improvement. Ask for additional advice on how to improve. Don’t panic over a single poor review-rather see it as an opportunity for growth.
- Start using Yelp’s FREE tools today. These tools will improve any business website and can help attract new customers. Spend time focusing on the details of your profile and site. Make sure you cultivate an accessible and inviting profile that embodies the feel and purpose of your business.
We look forward to bringing this exciting opportunity to Jamaica Plain! Please register here –we at Accion, the NYSE, and Yelp look forward to hosting and meeting Jamaica Plain entrepreneurs this Wednesday.
