Get Creative in Your Community

When most sales teams think about growth, they look outward, new leads, new markets, cold outreach.

But sometimes, the best strategy is right in your own backyard.

At Sales Ink, we’ve seen clients unlock serious revenue and retention by getting creative in their local community. One standout example? A print shop that partnered with a local brewery tour to drive business, deepen relationships, and have a blast doing it.

Here’s how it worked and why it’s a strategy more shops should be paying attention to.

What They Did: Built Real-World Connections

Instead of another round of cold calls or email blasts, this client decided to double down on something different:

✅ They partnered with other small businesses in their area, starting with a popular brewery tour. 

✅ They brought together local customers, friends, and partners for a casual, relationship-first event. 

✅ They focused not on pitching products, but on building real connections.

This wasn’t just a marketing play, it was a community play.

And in an industry built on trust and repeat business, that made all the difference.

Why It Worked: Sales Without Selling

Let’s break down what they gained:

1. Leveraged Existing Relationships
They tapped into the trust and credibility of the brewery, drawing attendees who already valued small business and community.

2. Helped Their Customers
This wasn’t just a fun outing, it was a way to connect like-minded business owners and help them grow together. Their customers felt seen, appreciated, and supported.

3. Grew Revenue (Organically)
The event sparked new project ideas, rekindled old conversations, and opened the door to fresh opportunities. All without the need for high-pressure sales tactics.

4. Eliminated Churn
Clients who might have drifted away got re-engaged. The experience reinforced loyalty and made switching vendors feel unthinkable.

5. Had Fun Doing It
Let’s not forget: beer was involved. The team had a great time, built their brand naturally, and enjoyed the process.

How You Can Apply This Strategy

You don’t have to plan a brewery tour to make this work. The key is to find ways to:

• Partner with local businesses who share your values and audience

• Host events or experiences that give back to your customers and community

• Focus on connection over conversion

• Be present where your customers live and work

Think:

• Coffee collabs with your favorite café

• Joint promotions with local gyms, schools, or nonprofits

• Seasonal pop-up events with other service providers

Your community is full of potential partners and clients, it just takes one creative step to start the conversation.

Final Thought

Get creative. Be generous. Show up.

Your next big win might be waiting in your own neighborhood