by Marco Chase

The market place is adorned with many businesses and structures of all types to suit consumer demands. Big businesses are in turmoil and are continually laying employees off or downsizing to meet shareholder demands. This creates an opportunity for smaller businesses and firms to compete for your business and meet your requirements for quality. Where does supporting Small business rank in your daily living? If it doesn't then check out exactly what it's doing for American citizenry.

NFIB (2007) also states that Small businesses:

- A net 66 % of the Americans think small business "exerts a positive influence on the way things are going in the country today;"

- created on average about two-thirds of net new jobs, depending on the point in the business cycle;

- provide the first job for most entrants to the labor force; and

- developed a significant number of this nation's most important inventions and innovations such as heart valves and the airplane.

Small business produces roughly half of the private Gross Domestic Product and between 60 percent and 80 percent of net new jobs (NFIB, 2007). Overtime Small businesses have begun to offer enough to compete and/or match larger corporate structure. We as Small business owners understand that relationship building greatly improves success and is lacking due to consumer loyalty. This is not to say that Small businesses aren't looking for consumer loyalty, however, we stand in position to remain loyal to you needs as a consumer.

Yes, consumer service is a concern of yours, as well as, for our VASSARmagazine.Com's family. Phenomenal customer/consumer relationship management is what attracts and keeps you coming back. As a consumer your support of Small businesses just may place you in the right place at the right time. Small business recognizes you as a valued consumer.

This is your opportunity to get in on something that may actually benefit you in the long-run. You ask how? Investing, partnership and/or purchasing provide three points of entry. We all are looking for investments with reasonably stable rate of return on investment (ROI). Additionally, the relationship (i.e., discounts, consumer referral program, participation in community events, etc.) that they have created with you may also open the lines of communication enough to provide you with more insight into their business operations. Meanwhile, this could be the perfect employer for you or an excellent networking opportunity. As you can see the options are almost limitless.

If you are looking for quality products and/or services, well managed consumer relations, and reasonable prices give Small businesses a try. You just might find more than what you are looking for! If you are unsure what or who classifies as a Small business then check out your local Chamber of Commerce, Department of Business and Economic Development or your states website for business.

References:

National Federation of Independent Business. (2007). Small business facts. Retrieved February 13, 2008, from http://www.nfib.com/object/smallBusinessFacts