Discussions

been talking about opening a business in a small community but have heard that even though there may be a need for the service/business, that unless you're from the town they really wont support it? talked to lots of different age groups in the town, lots of backing verbally, but have spoken to other small business owners that say they don't actually follow through with the actual using of the business. Concerned and curious if anyone out there has any perspective on it?

If you want to open a business in a rural area, your prices and customer service have to be excellent. You should also donate money/products back to the community. Once people see how you are benefitting their community AND if your prices are good, you should succeed.  
Make sure you make it ridiculously easy for the consumer. If it’s too hard people will stick with what they know, even if prices are better.

Giving back to the community doesn't always have to be giving money or products. It can also be time. Being involved in fundraisers for local charities, volunteering at food banks, with animal rescue, local events, summer fairs, etc is also a good way to be involved.

Agree, the community thing doesn’t have to be only products or money. Even selling tickets to fundraisers or letting nonprofits hang posters in your windows can be huge too! Or helping them advertise on social media. Integrating yourself into the community is key.

Viv said "If you want to open a business in a rural area, your prices and customer service have to be excellent. You should also donate money/products back to the community. Once people see how you are benefitting their community AND if your prices are good, you should succeed.   Make sure you make it ridiculously easy for the consumer. If it’s too hard people will stick with what they know, even if prices are better. "

well I understand the getting involved in the community which takes time if you don't know anyone. Not sure why as a newly opening business one would have to donate money/products? Ive lived in small towns before and there are a lot of small businesses that don't donate that way. if youre just opening they wont necessarily have a lot of money etc to be tossing around. at the same time I'm still wondering if supporting "outsiders" is still a no go joe like it used to be

pinkflamingos said "I don't think it matters if you are from the town IF you are providing a needed service/product that people genuinely want at a price they can afford. But if helps if, for example, you are opening the second hairdresser on the same street as an existing one because if given the choice people will stick to who they know. "

there are a couple home based businesses that are similar in the area, but def different choices of products and prices are better than them. thanks for your input

It may depend on what small town/rural area you are talking about. Our wider area is very verbally against "outsiders," even if you have been in the area for over 50 years. Lip service is usually very different (and can be a false positive) than the residents actually taking time & opening their wallets to support your business, just as you have heard.  
 
If it is a home based business, it depends on if it is another MLM, or a true entrepreneurial business. An MLM isn't as likely to go over as the other...but again, it could have to do with the area you are in and what you are offering.

anna_p said "been talking about opening a business in a small community but have heard that even though there may be a need for the service/business, that unless you're from the town they really wont support it? talked to lots of different age groups in the town, lots of backing verbally, but have spoken to other small business owners that say they don't actually follow through with the actual using of the business. Concerned and curious if anyone out there has any perspective on it? "

There is a big difference between retail needs. I guess it depends on what your selling. If you're in a town needing a much needed retail shop, it might fly or not. If you are selling homemade goods from your home, that might be a harder sell.  
 
Wishing you luck with whatever and wherever your business is. I agree to get creative with the community and network as much as you can.