Struggling Local Business Help: Step #6 Commit to THE RIGHT Social Networks

In this article, we’re focusing on the tools and strategies that help San Jacinto and Hemet business owners market smarter, not harder. We’ve narrowed it down to the top 10 social networks that small business owners can use to create real connections with local customers.

This isn’t about chasing likes or growing a massive follower count—it’s about building a LOCAL online community and getting them through your doors.

Sure, having 25,000 Instagram followers worldwide is great if your page is monetized. But if you’ve got 112 YouTube subscribers who live and work in Hemet or San Jacinto, guess what? Those 112 people are far more important for your local business. THEY are the ones you should focus on.

In this post, we’ll break down how each of these 10 platforms can help you brand, promote, and market your business to a LOCAL audience. Plus, we’ll give you simple tips to make sure your efforts turn into real results—like more foot traffic, more service calls, and more loyal customers right here in your community.

Hemet San Jacinto: First, What Is a LOCAL Business?

Ever wondered what truly makes a business local? It’s not just about size—it’s about heart and roots in the community. A local business is one with a visible address—a place people can actually visit, whether it’s a brick-and-mortar storefront, an office, or even a home base for delivery or on-location services. It’s about being physically connected to the people and places in the area.

Think about it: When you shop at a local boutique or grab a coffee from a neighborhood café, where does that money go? Back into the community! Local businesses create jobs, support other businesses, and reinvest in the area. That’s why we live by the motto, Shop Local & Recycle Hemet Dollars. It’s not just a catchphrase—it’s how we keep Hemet and San Jacinto thriving.

So, if your business has a real address and serves the people around you, congrats—you’re not just a small business. You’re a local business, and that makes you a vital part of what keeps our community strong.

Now that we know what defines a local business, let’s talk about where you should focus your marketing efforts. With so many social media platforms out there, how do you know which ones are worth your time? Let’s dive into the best platforms for your brand and how to use them to reach your local audience.

What’s the Best Social Media Platform for Your Brand?

Should your business have a presence on every major social platform? Yes, absolutely—if only to claim your handle or username before someone else does. But when it comes to focusing your time and energy, it’s all about finding the platforms where your target customers spend their time.

For example, if you sell specialty baby toys, you’re probably not going to gain much traction on Reddit. Moms with disposable incomes are hanging out in Facebook mom groups, sharing tips and talking about brands. On the other hand, if you sell work boots, Tumblr might not make sense for you—unless you’re in a super niche market where that platform has a specific audience you want to reach.

So, how do you figure it out? Ask yourself where you go online to connect with industry or niche-related people. Are you active in Facebook Groups? Then that’s where you should start engaging. Love the professional vibe of LinkedIn? Make that your focus and start using your scroll time to build connections.

If you’re not sure how to get started, don’t worry—that’s exactly what Valley Local Pages is here for. In the next section, we’re diving into the top 10 social networks that local businesses use and how to make the most of them. Let’s get into it!

Top 10 Social Networks for LOCAL Businesses to Boost Customer Experiences

Social media can be a game-changer for local businesses looking to connect with their community and attract new customers. But it’s not just about being online—it’s about choosing the right platforms and using them effectively to engage local audiences.

We’ve rounded up the top 10 social networks that small businesses in Hemet, San Jacinto, and the Inland Empire can use to create stronger customer experiences. Each platform offers unique tools to help you build your brand, showcase your products or services, and foster a loyal local following.

And don’t forget: hashtags matter! Using local hashtags like #HemetEats, #SanJacintoShopping, or #InlandEmpireFitness can make your posts more discoverable to nearby customers who are actively searching for businesses like yours.

Let’s explore how each of these platforms can help take your local business to the next level!

Platforms for Community Building and Engagement

Creating strong connections with your local audience isn’t just about selling—it’s about building relationships. Platforms like Facebook and Meetup are designed to help small businesses foster a sense of community, engage with customers, and create lasting connections.

These tools aren’t just for posting updates or running ads—they’re about engaging in meaningful ways that bring people together, whether it’s through local events, groups, or personalized interactions. The following platforms are perfect for any business looking to become a bigger part of its community while growing its customer base.

1. Facebook

Facebook is a great platform for local businesses to connect with their community and create loyal customers. It’s ideal for maintaining customer relationships by responding to messages, comments, and reviews quickly.

This social network also offers features like tagging nearby landmarks, partnering with local businesses, and targeting your posts or ads to people in specific locations, ensuring your efforts reach the right audience.

Tools to Use on Facebook to Build LOCAL Audiences:

• Facebook Groups: Start or join community-focused groups to engage with your local audience. For example, if you own a fitness studio, you could create a group for fitness enthusiasts in San Jacinto to share tips, updates, and special offers.
• Facebook Marketplace: Sell your products or services directly to local buyers in your area through the Facebook Marketplace. This is particularly useful for showcasing unique or high-demand items to people nearby.
• Facebook Events: Create and promote events happening at your business or in the community. Use this tool to draw attention to store openings, workshops, or seasonal sales.
• Facebook Stories: Share quick updates, promotions, or behind-the-scenes content to connect with your audience. Stories are great for time-sensitive offers or giving your followers a sneak peek of what’s happening at your business.
• Facebook Reels: Post short, engaging videos to highlight your products, services, or events. Reels are ideal for fun, creative content that grabs attention and showcases your personality.
• Facebook Ads: Run location-based ads to target users within a specific radius of your storefront. Customize these ads to highlight special offers, seasonal promotions, or new product launches.
• Facebook Check-Ins and Reviews: Encourage customers to check in at your business or leave reviews. Check-ins help spread the word among their local networks, while reviews build trust with potential customers in your area.

These tools work together to help your local business connect with nearby customers, promote your offerings, and build a strong community presence.

2. Meetup

Meetup is a fantastic platform for local businesses to build in-person connections and strengthen ties with their community. It’s perfect for organizing events, hosting gatherings, or networking with like-minded people in your area. Whether you’re running workshops, fitness classes, or industry meetups, Meetup allows you to tap into a highly engaged audience looking for local experiences.

Tools to Use on Meetup to Build LOCAL Audiences:

• Meetup Event Creation: Host local events such as classes, workshops, or networking meetups. Meetup allows you to provide detailed event descriptions, dates, and times, making it easy for attendees to find and join.
• Meetup Local Groups: Create a group based on your niche or industry, like a “San Jacinto Coffee Enthusiasts” group or “Hemet Fitness Meetups.” This positions your business as a hub for the local community.
• Meetup Audience Targeting: Use Meetup’s built-in tools to attract attendees based on their interests, hobbies, and location. This ensures your events are reaching the right local audience.
• Meetup RSVP Tracking: Keep track of who’s attending your events to build relationships with your audience and follow up for future engagement.
• Meetup Messaging Tools: Directly communicate with your group members and attendees to share updates, reminders, or post-event thank-yous.
• Meetup Event Feedback: After events, organizers can gather feedback from attendees to improve future gatherings.
• Meetup Integration with Online Platforms: Meetup allows integration with platforms like Zoom, facilitating virtual events and expanding reach beyond physical locations.

By using Meetup, your business can attract new customers, build stronger relationships with your local audience, and create a sense of community around your brand.

Visual Storytelling and Branding

Visual platforms are a game-changer for local businesses looking to make a lasting impression. Whether it’s through stunning photos, engaging videos, or inspiring boards, platforms like Instagram and Pinterest offer unique ways to showcase your brand’s personality while driving local engagement.

These tools aren’t just about pretty pictures—they’re about creating a connection with your audience, telling your story, and highlighting what makes your business special. The following platforms are ideal for visually-driven branding and storytelling that captivate local customers and inspire them to choose your business.

3. Instagram

Instagram is an excellent platform for showcasing your brand visually while connecting with local customers. Its tools make it easy to tell your story, highlight your products or services, and engage with your community in a creative way. Whether you’re posting stunning images, creating fun Reels, or sharing updates in Stories, Instagram helps you stay relevant and visible to a local audience.

Tools to Use on Instagram to Build LOCAL Audiences:

• Instagram Location Tags: Add your location to every post, Story, and Reel. This helps local users discover your business when searching for nearby spots or exploring the location tag.
• Instagram Stories: Share behind-the-scenes moments, announce upcoming promotions, or give live updates from local events. Stories create an immediate connection and keep your followers engaged daily.
• Instagram Reels: Post short, creative videos to showcase your products, share customer testimonials, or highlight your involvement in the community. Reels are great for grabbing attention and showcasing personality.
• Instagram Shopping Features: Set up an Instagram Shop to let users browse and purchase your products directly from your profile and pick them up right from your San Jacinto store. Tag products in posts, Stories, and Reels to make it easy for customers to shop.
• Instagram Polls and Questions: Use interactive stickers in Stories to ask questions, run polls, or gather feedback from your local audience. For example, “What’s your favorite local treat?” or “Which of these items should we restock?”
• Instagram Collaborations: Team up with local influencers, artists, or businesses for cross-promotions. This can expand your reach while staying relevant to your target audience.
• Instagram Highlights: Save your Stories to Highlights to showcase evergreen content like promotions, FAQs, or local events. For example, create a “Local Deals” or “Community Love” Highlight to keep local promotions visible.
• Instagram Direct Messaging (DM): Use DMs to build relationships with customers, answer inquiries, and send exclusive offers to your followers.

Instagram gives local businesses the tools to creatively engage their community while driving traffic to their store or services. Use it to share your brand’s personality and make meaningful connections with the people in your area.

4. Pinterest

Pinterest is a highly visual platform that excels at driving inspiration and discovery, making it an excellent choice for local businesses in industries like food, fashion, home improvement, and events. It’s perfect for showcasing products or services while guiding customers toward a purchase or booking decision. Pinterest allows businesses to blend creativity with commerce, helping you reach local customers actively searching for ideas.

Tools to Use on Pinterest to Build LOCAL Audiences:

• Pinterest Business Profile: Set up a business account to unlock analytics and advertising tools, giving you insights into your audience and pin performance. Showcase your brand with a professional profile that highlights your location and services.
• Pinterest Boards: Create curated boards tailored to your niche and local audience. For example, a bakery could create boards like “Hemet Wedding Cakes” or “San Jacinto Holiday Treats.”
• Rich Pins: Enable Rich Pins to display additional details like product prices, availability, or ingredients, making it easier for local customers to make informed decisions.
• Pinterest Ads: Use Pinterest Ads to target users in specific geographic areas. Promote seasonal sales, local events, or exclusive products to drive foot traffic or website visits.
• Pinterest Shopping Features: Integrate your online store with Pinterest to enable users to shop directly from your pins. Use “Shop the Look” pins to showcase complementary products in a single pin.
• Idea Pins: Post step-by-step tutorials, behind-the-scenes content, or how-tos related to your business. For instance, a florist could create an Idea Pin on “How to Arrange Spring Flowers from Hemet’s Local Markets.”
• Pinterest Analytics: Monitor analytics to see what types of content perform best with your local audience. Use this data to refine your strategy and keep your pins relevant.

Pinterest provides the tools to turn inspiration into action, helping local customers discover your business and take the next step. By using its features to showcase your products or services, you can attract customers who are ready to shop, book, or visit.

Short-Form Visual Content and Viral Reach

If your local business thrives on creativity, authenticity, and capturing attention in seconds, platforms like TikTok and Snapchat are your go-to tools. These social networks are built for short-form, engaging content that resonates with modern audiences.

Whether you’re highlighting a new product, running a playful promotion, or jumping on the latest trend, TikTok and Snapchat allow you to showcase your personality and connect with local customers in fun, innovative ways. With tools designed to engage audiences and drive real-time action, these platforms offer opportunities to build excitement and foster community around your brand.

5. TikTok

TikTok is a dynamic platform designed for short, engaging video content. While it’s often associated with younger audiences, TikTok is increasingly valuable for local businesses looking to capture attention, showcase personality, and build a community. It’s especially effective for businesses that can leverage humor, creativity, or “behind-the-scenes” content to connect with local customers.

Tools to Use on TikTok to Build LOCAL Audiences:

• TikTok For Business Account: Create a business account to access analytics, ad tools, and the ability to add links to your bio. This ensures your content supports your local marketing goals.
• TikTok Location Tags: Use hashtags and captions with local keywords like #HemetEats or #SanJacintoStyle to target nearby customers and make your videos more discoverable.
• TikTok Ads: Run location-based ad campaigns to target users in specific regions. Promote grand openings, local deals, or seasonal specials to attract nearby customers.
• TikTok Trends and Challenges: Participate in trending challenges or create your own with a local spin. For example, a local bakery could create a “#HemetCupcakeChallenge” to encourage customers to post videos with their cupcakes.
• TikTok Live: Go live to interact directly with your audience in real-time. Use this feature for Q&A sessions, product demos, or streaming local events.
• Duets and Stitch Features: Engage with customers or other local businesses by creating collaborative videos. For instance, duet with a local influencer who visits your store or stitch a customer testimonial video.
• TikTok Analytics: Use TikTok’s analytics to see which videos resonate most with your audience. Focus on creating more content that appeals to local viewers and encourages engagement.

TikTok’s creative tools and growing user base make it an excellent platform for local businesses to stand out. By using short, relatable videos, you can connect with your community and turn viewers into loyal customers.

6. Snapchat

Snapchat is a unique platform for local businesses that want to create fun, ephemeral content to engage with their audience. With its focus on short-lived Stories and localized features, Snapchat is a great way to connect with younger audiences and promote events, deals, or limited-time offers.

Tools to Use on Snapchat to Build LOCAL Audiences:

• Snapchat Stories: Share daily updates, behind-the-scenes content, or time-sensitive promotions that disappear after 24 hours. Stories keep your audience engaged and encourage them to act quickly.
• Snapchat Geofilters: Design custom geofilters for your business or events. These location-based overlays can be used by Snapchat users in your area, promoting your brand every time someone shares a snap.
• Snapchat Ads: Use Snap Ads to run location-based campaigns targeting nearby users. These ads can showcase special offers, new products, or community events, ensuring your message reaches the right audience.
• Snapchat Lenses: Create branded AR lenses to add an interactive and playful element to your marketing. For example, a local restaurant could create a lens that adds a virtual taco or pizza slice to the user’s photo.
• Snapchat Snap Map: Utilize the Snap Map feature to highlight your business location. By enabling location tagging and sharing updates, you can attract nearby users exploring the area.
• Snapchat Direct Messaging: Engage directly with followers to answer questions, share personalized offers, or encourage them to visit your San Jacinto Valley store.

Snapchat is ideal for businesses that thrive on creativity and urgency. By leveraging its localized tools and playful features, you can create a buzz around your brand and connect with a younger, tech-savvy audience in your area.

Video Content and Tutorials

When it comes to building trust, showcasing expertise, and delivering valuable information, video content is king. YouTube provides local businesses with the perfect platform to create tutorials, share product demos, and tell their stories in an engaging, authentic way.

For small businesses in Hemet and San Jacinto, YouTube offers tools to connect with your community, promote local events, and highlight what makes your brand unique. Whether it’s a how-to video, a live Q&A, or a quick tip to help your audience, YouTube lets you build meaningful relationships with viewers while driving traffic straight to your storefront or services.

7. YouTube

YouTube is a powerful platform for local businesses to showcase their expertise, connect with their community, and build a loyal following. It allows businesses to create video content that provides value, entertains, and establishes authority—all while attracting a local audience.

Tools to Use on YouTube to Build LOCAL Audiences:

• YouTube Shorts: Post short, engaging videos (under 60 seconds) to showcase quick tips, behind-the-scenes content, or highlight local events. Shorts are a great way to capture local attention quickly and stay visible.
• YouTube Playlists: Organize your videos into playlists based on topics relevant to your local audience. For example, a fitness studio could create playlists for “Beginner Workouts” or “Hemet Fitness Tips.”
• YouTube Community Tab: Use this feature to post updates, polls, or share behind-the-scenes photos to engage with your audience beyond videos. It’s like having a social media feed directly on YouTube.
• YouTube Live: Host live Q&A sessions, product launches, or local event coverage to connect with your audience in real time. Live streams are a great way to build trust and showcase authenticity.
• YouTube Ads: Use targeted ads to reach viewers in your local area. Promote special offers, upcoming events, or new products to a highly specific audience.
• YouTube Analytics: Track performance metrics such as viewer demographics, watch time, and engagement to understand what content resonates with your local audience.

YouTube gives local businesses the tools to engage deeply with their community through video content. By sharing informative, entertaining, or locally relevant videos, you can build a strong presence that drives traffic to your business.

Professional Networking and B2B Connections

For local businesses aiming to connect with other professionals, establish authority, or tap into B2B opportunities, LinkedIn is the platform to prioritize. It’s more than just a networking tool—it’s a space where you can showcase your expertise, collaborate with local businesses, and build long-term professional relationships.

Whether you’re a service provider looking to engage with potential clients or a business owner seeking partnerships within Hemet and San Jacinto, LinkedIn offers powerful tools to strengthen your presence and make meaningful connections in your community.

8. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the go-to platform for professional networking, making it an excellent choice for local businesses looking to connect with other businesses, industry experts, or professionals in their area. It’s particularly useful for B2B companies, service providers, and businesses aiming to establish authority within their niche.

Tools to Use on LinkedIn to Build LOCAL Audiences:

• LinkedIn Company Page: Create a page for your business to share updates, post about achievements, and showcase services. Include location-specific keywords in your description to attract local professionals and businesses.
• LinkedIn Posts: Share content that highlights your involvement in the local community, such as collaborations, local event sponsorships, or community service initiatives. Consistent posting keeps your business visible in local feeds.
• LinkedIn Groups: Join or create local groups related to your industry or area, like “Hemet Business Professionals” or “San Jacinto Real Estate Network.” Use these groups to share expertise, answer questions, and engage with local members.
• LinkedIn Events: Host virtual or in-person events like webinars, workshops, or networking mixers. Promote these events to local professionals and businesses directly through LinkedIn.
• LinkedIn Ads: Use LinkedIn’s location-based ad targeting to reach professionals in your area. This is especially effective for promoting B2B services, job openings, or local events.
• LinkedIn Recommendations and Endorsements: Ask satisfied local clients or collaborators to endorse your skills or leave recommendations on your page. These testimonials build trust and credibility.
• LinkedIn Messaging: Use direct messaging to reach out to local contacts, foster partnerships, or introduce your services to other businesses in the area.
• LinkedIn Analytics: Use the analytics dashboard to track the performance of your posts, engagement, and audience demographics. Tailor your content strategy based on the insights.

LinkedIn provides local businesses with the tools to build credibility, strengthen relationships within the community, and connect with potential collaborators or clients. It’s a must-use platform for establishing your business as a trusted local professional resource.

Real-Time Updates and Conversations

9. X (Formerly Known as Twitter)

X, formerly known as Twitter, is a dynamic platform for real-time updates, conversations, and building a local presence. Its tools make it easy for businesses to connect with local audiences, join trending discussions, and establish themselves as active members of the community.

Tools to Use on X to Build LOCAL Audiences:

• Location-Based Tweets: Use geotags to highlight your location in posts, ensuring they show up in searches from local users in the San Jacinto area.
• Pinned Tweets: Highlight important local promotions, events, or updates by pinning them to the top of your profile for maximum visibility.
• Twitter Lists: Create or follow lists of local influencers, businesses, or community organizations to stay updated and engage with relevant local conversations.
• Twitter Polls: Use polls to ask your local audience about preferences, gather feedback, or spark discussions. For instance, “What’s your favorite local taco spot?”
• Twitter Spaces: Host live audio conversations to discuss topics relevant to your business or local community. This could include Q&A sessions, industry insights, or collaborations with other local businesses.
• Twitter Direct Messaging (DM): Respond to customer inquiries or reach out to local influencers and collaborators through private messaging.
• Promoted Tweets and Ads: Use X’s location-based ad targeting to promote your posts to a specific local audience, driving foot traffic or online engagement for your business.
• Twitter Trending Topics: Participate in local trending topics to show your business is active in the community. Share thoughtful contributions or promotions tied to those discussions.

X is perfect for quick, engaging updates and meaningful interactions with your local audience. By actively participating in conversations and leveraging its tools, you can position your business as a valuable and accessible part of the community.

10. Reddit

Reddit is a platform built around communities, making it an excellent space for businesses to engage directly with niche local audiences. By participating in relevant subreddits, you can build credibility, share expertise, and connect with potential customers in a conversational and authentic way.

Tools to Use on Reddit to Build LOCAL Audiences:

• Local Subreddits: Join community-based subreddits like r/Hemet or r/SanJacinto r/InlandEmpire to participate in discussions, share updates, and promote events or services that matter to your local audience.
• Reddit Posts and Threads: Create posts to share valuable content, answer common questions, or announce special offers. For example, a post about “Best Places to Shop Local in Hemet San Jacinto” can position your business as a go-to resource.
• AMA (Ask Me Anything): Host an AMA session in a relevant subreddit to share insights about your business, answer customer questions, or discuss local topics. For example, “We’re a family-owned coffee shop in San Jacinto—ask us anything about coffee or the local scene!”
• Reddit Ads: Use Reddit’s ad platform to target users in specific locations or communities. Promote your business, events, or exclusive offers to users in your area for maximum reach.
• Polls and Surveys: Post polls in subreddits to gather opinions on local preferences, services, or trends. This can help you tailor your offerings based on direct feedback.
• Community Engagement: Engage in ongoing discussions by commenting thoughtfully on posts related to your industry, local events, or community needs. This builds trust and establishes your business as a friendly, knowledgeable presence.
• Local Events and Meetups: Announce local events or collaborations through subreddits focused on your area, encouraging attendance and engagement.
• User-Generated Content: Encourage satisfied local customers to share their experiences in subreddits relevant to your business. Positive testimonials in the right community can generate buzz.

Reddit’s community-driven nature makes it a powerful tool for small businesses to connect with local audiences authentically. By participating in discussions, sharing valuable insights, and respecting the platform’s guidelines, you can build strong relationships with your local community.

Next Up in This Series: Struggling Local Business Help: Step #7 Improve DIY Marketing on a Budget

Target THE RIGHT People on Social Media

Building LOCAL communities on the right social media platforms for your brand is a game-changer. Once you’ve chosen the platforms that resonate with your audience, you’re one step closer to turning online followers into loyal customers walking through your doors.

If you haven’t started yet, don’t stress—these tips are designed to help you decide what might work for your business. Test them out, tweak your approach, and see what clicks. Even if a platform isn’t your favorite, securing your usernames now ensures you’ll have the option to grow into it later.