Why Community Outreach Matters
By Patricia Kopec
At Intrigue we believe in building stronger communities. Unfortunately, many times in marketing community outreach seems to be put at the bottom of the priority list. Kiss Metrics outlines some key points as to why community outreach should not be disregarded in a marketing environment that is increasingly data driven.
1) Outreach Improves Corporate Image & Brand Reputation
Studies have shown that consumers care and are more committed to companies who are willing to be open and honest about their ethics, and are who are involved in the community. Community outreach can have a positive impact on your brand image and reputation. Consumers perceive the value of your company to be higher, which in turn increases satisfaction and loyalty!
2) Outreach Bolsters Your Local Presence
It`s a no-brainer that being involved in the community improves your visibility and relevance within the community. This doesn’t mean ending world hunger, but it does mean taking the necessary steps to find a cause that matters to your customers, and helping form meaningful relationships. Something simple (such as our Giving Ring) that resonates with your customers can be very powerful!
3) Outreach Enriches the Customer Experience
Listen to the customers in your community! By tailoring your outreach, and meeting the needs that consumers care about, your company creates an experience that is relevant to the people. The more beneficial the cause is, the greater the customer experience (and retention)!
4) Outreach Enhances Stakeholder Value
As mentioned, community outreach tends to increase brand loyalty and satisfaction. It only makes sense that happy customers can result in better market performance for your company! It also shows your company as having high ethical standards, which in turn makes it more attractive to better funding. Externally, companies with community outreach seem to have happier employees which results in better performance and more satisfied and loyal customers.
5) Company Outreach as an Executive Decision
Being involved in community outreach doesn`t involve one person. This must be a core priority throughout your whole team. As Chris Campbell says, `How your business works and engages with the community will change the way the community does business with you.`
At Intrigue, community has been the core of our business since day one. Without it, we would not be where we are today, and that is why we believe so strongly in giving back! Check out our partnership with Kids4Kids, or why we work with businesses who align with our values such as Cambridge Pools.
Start the conversation with us today if you believe in the power of community!