In the world replete with online businesses, there’s a shift happening. Entrepreneurs are stepping away from their screens and stepping into the real world to expand their audience and build trust with clients and collaborators. It’s a blend of old-school networking and new-age digital marketing, and it’s changing the game.

There’s a new trend sweeping the online business world, and it’s all about going back to basics. It’s about tapping into the power of local relationships and using them to amplify your digital influence. It’s about realizing that your next-door neighbor, your local barista, or the owner of your favorite bookstore could be the key to your online success.

This isn’t just a strategy; it’s a shift in mindset. It’s about seeing the value in every handshake, every conversation, every in-person event. It’s about understanding that in a world where everyone is connected, the most valuable connections are often the ones right in front of you.

In this digital age, your local community isn’t just a place to live; it’s a resource, a tool, a secret weapon in the online marketplace. So, let’s embrace this shift. Let’s tap into the power of our local communities and see just how far they can take us in the digital world.

But why is this shift happening now? It’s simple. In a world where digital marketing is becoming increasingly saturated, businesses are looking for ways to stand out. And nothing stands out more than a personal connection.

In-person networking allows businesses to build trust in a way that digital marketing simply can’t. It allows for genuine, meaningful interactions that leave a lasting impression. And when these interactions are combined with a strong digital presence, the results can be extraordinary.

So, for the ambition Black entrepreneurs looking to expand your company’s reach, consider this: Your next big business breakthrough might not be in your inbox or on your social media feed. It might just be at your local networking event, in a conversation with a fellow entrepreneur, or in a collaboration with a local business.

So, let’s get back to our roots, and let’s make our businesses shine, both online and off. Because when we combine our local roots with our digital fruits, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.

Now that we’ve explored the power of combining local relationships with digital influence, let’s talk about practical steps you can take to start building your audience.

Identify Events

Start by identifying a local event or gathering that aligns with your business or personal brand. This could be a networking event, an in-person summit or even a charity fundraiser. The key is to find an event where you can meet and connect with people who share your interests or values.

Make the Plan

Once you’ve identified the event, make a plan. Set a goal for how many people you want to connect with, and think about how you can introduce your online platform in a natural, non-salesy way. Maybe you have a LinkedIn article that relates to the event’s theme, or a service that could solve a problem for the attendees.

Remember, the goal isn’t to sell; it’s to connect. It’s to start a conversation that can continue online.

Follow-Up

After the event, be sure to follow up. Send a personalized email or message to the people you connected with, and invite them to join your online community. Share relevant content, offer value, and show them that you’re not just interested in their business, but in building a genuine relationship.

This is just one way to start leveraging your local community to build your online audience. It’s a simple step, but it can have a big impact. So, why not give it a try? You might be surprised at the connections you can make, and the growth you can achieve.

Shanel Evans is the Host of the Structure and Soul Podcast.  An award-winning business strategist and content marketing consultant, she helps entrepreneurs level up by aligning offers, pricing, and messaging to attract top-tier clients.