In a recent survey conducted at the Lake Anna Business Partnership meeting on Tuesday, October 17th, 50 business owners were asked the question: “Where do you get local news, information, and recommendations?” The results painted a fascinating picture of how these entrepreneurs stay connected with their local community.

Facebook Takes the Lead: It comes as no surprise that social media giant Facebook topped the list, with a whopping 69% of participants revealing it as their go-to source for local news and recommendations. In today’s digital age, Facebook has established itself as a prominent platform for community updates and discussions.

Friends Are Trusted Advisers: Close behind, 66% of business owners cited friends as a reliable source of local information. Friends, with their firsthand experiences and trusted opinions, often play a significant role in shaping the choices of these entrepreneurs.

Google’s Influence: Half of the survey participants, exactly 50%, rely on the search engine behemoth Google for local information. Google’s widespread reach and ease of use make it a convenient option for those seeking quick answers.

Radio Still Holds Appeal: Interestingly, 3 out of 7 business owners expressed their trust in local radio stations, including 105.5, 90.5, NPR, and 98.1, as sources of local news. Radio’s timeless charm and community-driven content clearly resonate with some business owners.

Diverse Sources for Diverse Needs: Business owners also shared a range of other sources they turn to, emphasizing the diversity of their information-seeking habits. These additional sources include:

1. Email
2. Chamber of Commerce / LABP
3. Local Websites
4. Regional Newspapers / Magazines
5. Yard Signs / Vehicle Wraps
6. YouTube (mentioned by 1 participant)
7. Twitter (mentioned by 1 participant)
8. DuckDuckGo (mentioned by 1 participant)
9. Wall Street Journal (mentioned by 1 participant)
10. News Apps (mentioned by 1 participant)

This list showcases the business owners’ willingness to explore various avenues to stay updated and informed about their local community.

In conclusion, the survey conducted at the Lake Anna Business Partnership meeting reveals that business owners rely on a multitude of sources to keep themselves informed about local news, information, and recommendations. While Facebook and friends take the lead, it’s evident that the combination of digital, interpersonal, and traditional sources plays a pivotal role in shaping their decisions and keeping them connected with the community. This diversity of sources highlights the adaptability and resourcefulness of these dedicated entrepreneurs in their quest for local knowledge.

Jen Bailey

Hi! I’m Jennifer Bailey and I partner with entrepreneurs who have massive ideas that could change the world. Most marketing is meaningless. Filled with empty promises, its only job is to bring in new traffic, new leads, and new customers. But I’ve drawn a line in the sand, and I’ve learned that marketing can do so much more than reach business goals and build profit. My methods give businesses the fire and soul they need to reach the right people, set the groundwork for sustainable relationships, and offer true value to the people on both the giving and receiving ends of marketing.

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