RelyLocal gets some much-deserved attention in Florida
Mar 16
RelyLocal is taking off in Florida thanks to the hard work of Tony Thompson and Steve Prince. Watch the video below to find out more about their passion for the local community and the difference they are already making in people’s lives.
Press play below to view coverage from Fox29.
This was forwarded to me yesterday and it was exactly what I needed to affirm my reasons for launching RelyLocal – Olympia earlier this year.
As the 1st RelyLocal territory owner in Washington state, I struggled to find a good cause to get up and out each day and prospect. With a background in Marketing, I knew what I had in my hands would work, but who would buy it? However, after the 1st few contacts I made, the businesses of Thurston County, which consists of Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Tenino, Rochester, Yelm and Rainier, have really embraced this concept.
Many have told me “it’s a Rodeo out there”, meaning they are barraged by advertising and media salespeople daily. Fortunately, having lived here for 30 years, I know many families that have prospered in these towns and some who have failed. As such, I have learned to contact them first and foremost. Even being referred to businesses I’ve never been to, the message remains the same; It’s about Community. We all believe that by spending locally…dollars stay local.
When we 1st moved here from San Diego, we were a bit taken aback by the (slower) pace. Looking back, I see that it has picked up a great deal and, perhaps, much to the chagrin of many of the residents. We’ve seen Mom and Pop stores fall to the rise of the big box stores. However a few of the keystones have hung on. We feature Desco Audio and Video on our site and they are one of the long-standing stereo and TV stores on the Westside. McKinney’s Appliance is another that we would love to feature, simply because they are the Builder’s choice and they will work hard for your business. Sunset Air is a family owned and operated HVAC company that “doesn’t feel good until you do”.
Today, I signed an old friend whom I have watched grow personally and professionally over the years. Proudly, we now feature Hometown Property Management on the RelyLocal – Olympia site. Andrew Barkis has also grown his company from a small property management firm to the leader in our community, managing over 900 properties.
I guess what I am saying, is that each day I now have faith and motivation to get out there and promote the concept of buying from locally owned businesses. I’ve also learned that, when I face someone and show them how RelyLocal can enhance their digital presence and capture more attention via the web and social networking (e.g. Facebook and Twitter) should they become a member, we all win.
I am grateful to have the opportunity to work for myself as an entrepreneur and hope others support the idea in their cities.