#theguyonthecorner

[richwithfarmers]

[richwithfarmers]

Why Stand on the Corner?

There is a public relations exercise that lays out the following scenarios for comparison: Imagine yourself sitting in your car, stressed out from a hard day of work, stuck in traffic, tensions high… Someone cuts you off, and drives slowly. Imagine your reaction. Now; imagine walking down the sidewalk, stressed out from a hard day, and someone steps up on the sidewalk in front of you, then starts walking slowly. In a huff you grumble, and the person in front of you turns around; you both stop for just a split second. They make eye contact, and smile apologetically. Imagine your reaction.

           For most people, the reaction to the first scenario differs pretty greatly from the reaction to the second. What is the difference? We are social creatures… People actually like other people; sometimes, we just need to be reminded, with eye contact, a smile, or a wave. That is why I stand on the corner. From a business standpoint, my time and interaction are offered for free; but the immediate return on investment, in the honks, waves and smiles, is priceless. However, from a community marketing standpoint, the long-term return is even more valuable… There is a memorable face behind the storefront signage.

          In the digital age, where social network marketing is incredibly important even though it’s impersonal, it is just as important to have a positive physical presence in the community; otherwise, the effort for interpersonal relationships with clientele is just a façade and comprehensive marketing is shallow and halfhearted.

         If you have a small business, where you sell not only a service – but yourself, take a moment, shut down the internet, step outside and enjoy your view from the corner, and interact with your community. You won’t be sorry.