In small town areas, like ours, businesses aren’t just places to shop or grab a quick bite — they’re part of the community’s heart and soul. We all know how word spreads here, whether it’s about the newest coffee shop or a kind gesture from the local hardware store owner. This unique dynamic is what makes running a business in a small town so special — and so challenging.
I’ve seen it firsthand in our own office. At our CPA firm and HR/payroll business, we’ve had people walk in with candy bars to share, simply because they thought we’d appreciate a treat. They’ll stay for a cup of coffee, and the conversation often turns into something more meaningful than business. On cold winter days, we’ve had people come in off the street, not because they needed our services, but because they wanted to warm up. We’ll make them a fresh cup of coffee and let them sit in our lobby to talk and feel at ease.
And then there are the hugs. Some of our clients and visitors give hugs when they leave — not just out of gratitude, but because they feel connected. Those small, simple moments mean everything. They remind us that we’re not just serving customers; we’re building relationships that make a difference in people’s lives.
Relationships matter more than transactions
It’s stories like these that show why relationships matter. Sure, we’re here to crunch numbers or help them hire employees, but it’s the human connection that keeps people coming back. They trust us because they know we care. In a small town, that trust isn’t just a business asset— it’s a way of life.
Be part of the community
Small towns thrive on togetherness. Cumberland’s newly opened downtown is a beautiful example of this. If you haven’t visited yet, take a walk through the revitalized area. The charming storefronts, outdoor seating and welcoming vibe create the perfect setting for businesses to connect with the community. It’s not just about the space — it’s about the people who make it special.
Frostburg’s annual Christmas celebration is a perfect example of how our small town comes together. From twinkling lights lining Main Street to the laughter of families rushing from one activity to the next, the event captures the warmth and community spirit we’re known for. It’s not just a celebration — it’s a reminder of the connections that make our towns feel like home.
Let your customers do the talking
In our town, people talk. If you’ve done something great, you’ll hear about it. If you’ve made a mistake, you’ll definitely hear about that, too. Word-of-mouth is powerful here, so it’s important to give people something positive to share. A simple act of kindness can make all the difference.
Work together, not against each other
I’ve seen firsthand how collaboration can lift everyone up. Downtown Cumberland has already started to embrace this idea with its events and promotions that bring businesses together. It’s not just about competition — it’s about creating an experience that benefits everyone.
Stay flexible and listen
One of the biggest perks of running a small town business is being close to your customers. You can adapt to their needs faster than big corporations. I’ve seen local shops change their hours to accommodate school schedules or add outdoor seating because customers asked for it. It’s those small adjustments that show you’re listening and that you care.
Celebrate what makes us unique
Lastly, never underestimate the power of local pride. Whether it’s featuring local artists, using ingredients from nearby farms, or just giving a nod to our town’s history, customers love to see businesses that reflect the community.
The heart of the matter
Running a business in a small town is personal. It’s about more than profit margins and foot traffic — it’s about people. It’s about knowing your customers, showing up for your community and building something that lasts.
So the next time you’re in a local shop, taking in the charm of the towns in our tristate community or chatting with a business owner, think about the connections that keep our town thriving. And if you’re a business owner yourself, remember: Every interaction is an opportunity to make a difference.
In small towns like ours, connection isn’t just good business — it’s what makes our town feel like home.
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