There are plenty of small businesses in Ramona. Some of them may be places you and your family frequent, businesses that have been in Ramona for as long as you can remember. And some may be your go-to places instead of national chains.
AOL Chairman and CEO Tim Armstrong may stand behind a global brand, but he believes in the power of small businesses. In his recent interview with Patch Partners, a website connecting business owners to Patch in local communities, he offered his insight into what can set a small business above the rest of the competition.
Small businesses can hold a lot of power if they are intuitive with their customer base, Armstrong said.
“Small businesses can be nimble and can have intimate relationships with their customers. Knowing what their customers want is a very big advantage.”
In recent months, Ramona Patch has started a column known as Behind the Biz. Each featured business gives their best business advice, including things like "honesty and integrity;"" join the chamber of commerce;" "keep your employees happy;" and "always treat people right," to name a few.
Armstrong also noted that real success lies in what your business offers that the competitors do not.
“The advice I would give is the same advice I give myself—how do you create a differentiated and time-saving experience versus your competition? If a consumer cannot tell another consumer what unique benefit you offer, you might be missing an opportunity,” he said.
Local businesses in Ramona say it's their unique product or customer service that make them stand out above the rest.
Stacy Bart, owner of Unicorn Books and Gifts, told Patch in August that her secret is all about the local goods.
"I try to bring in locally made products as much as I can and things you won't find anywhere else," she told Patch.
Martha Bernsten, who owns Crazy Patch Quilt Shop on Main Street said her enthusiastic employees are what makes her business so successful.
"Our lively and energetic employees that have a passion for creativity and customer service," distinguishes the company, she told Patch.
Another way to support locally owned small businesses is to participate in American Express's Small Business Saturday on Nov. 24. Last year, over 100 million people participated in this day dedicated to supporting small businesses.
There are more articles and interviews about small businesses on Patch Partners, where you can also sign up for the Patch Partners newsletter and Patch Partners Twitter feed to stay better informed, grow your small business and strengthen your community.
TELL US: If you are a small business owner, did you find this information useful? If you are a patron of small businesses, do you agree with this advice? What are your favorite local businesses, and why?
