Print media is still king and there is a significant impact when businesses connect with their local newspaper. In today's discussion, we talk with John Howell, Editor/Publisher of the Warwick Beacon, among many publications, he is a contributor. The Beacon is a local newspaper published in little ole Warwick, Rhode Island and one we are very familiar with here at Practical BizZ. You will be surprised to find that many local papers are small businesses and rely on their community's support to stand the test of time. 

You may be shocked to uncover this is not your grandfather's newspaper. Most local newspapers offer the paper as an online subscription and provide links from your advertising to your website with one click. Only a few have even incorporated podcasting as a way to help the community learn more about your business and include a glimpse behind the scenes. A combination of print news, online, and podcasting is a great way to meet local business owners. Remember, people do more business with people they know, admire, and trust. 

This local journalism legend shares everything from how he and his partner found a creative way to fund their first of many publications and how they have kept the newspaper relevant and a significant part of the small business community. The local paper is an excellent resource for customers where they find everything LOCAL, from the news, sports, dining, arts and entertainment, exciting editorials, obituaries, legal notices, videos, and an array of happenings. In the world of social media, we have found that working with your local newspaper is often a grossly underrated resource and an opportunity many business owners do not take advantage of as part of a well-developed marketing plan. If you are a brick-and-mortar location, most of your business will come from within a five to ten-mile radius. This episode is a must-listen podcast if you are looking for an effective and affordable way to connect with your customers. 

Here are just a few ways to connect with your local newspaper:

• Advertising
• "Business Spotlights" or "Ask the Expert Segments".
• Sharing your business events ex: Grand Openings, moving to a new location, new product or service launch, employee recognition, awards, or new certifications.
• Show support for your community. 
• The local paper is a hyper-targeted resource and an effective way to increase your exposure to the people who do business with you. 
• Send a press release when you have breaking business news to share.
• Local newspapers are available online in the hand of your customers.
• The print publication helps you stay top of the mind of your customer and in the hands of your customers for at least 5 to 7 days (much longer than the 10-second Facebook reel).
• Link your website to the local paper website to gain more traffic and leads.
• Be a guest on their podcast to help others learn more about you.

Want to learn more about the Warwick Beacon? Click the link below.

John Howell: Editor/Publisher | Warwick Beacon (warwickonline.com)

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