Editor’s note: This is the second in a series of sit downs at Electric City Brewing with Anderson Mayor Terence Roberts, owner of Terence Roberts State Farm. Roberts will celebrate 34 years as a small business owner this July, something that gives him a unique perspective as an elected official.
Terence Roberts calls himself a marketing guy – a critical component of running a small business. But marketing has changed over the last three decades, with business owners often struggling to know the best ways to attract business.
“I’ve always tried to move to the next thing and not get stuck, but I do think the social business aspect – having a presence on all the (social) platforms is important,” Roberts said.
Search queries from mobile devices and the power of online reviews are two important factors for small business owners, he said. As a matter of fact, research shows that mobile users that find your business online have a conversion percentage nearly three times higher than the same search done on a desktop or laptop.
But as old-school as it sounds, Roberts says, relationships still matter.
“I think people locally want to do business with people that they know – that they go to church with, so I think that’s important,” he said.
Buying local
One positive that has come from the coronavirus crisis is the consumer trend to support smaller, local brands.
“I think twice about what I’m buying, and if can I get it locally,” Roberts said. “If I can get it local, I’m doing it local. I think people want to see people succeed.”
Time management
Roberts cautions small business owners not to fall into the trap of thinking they are productive just because they’re busy. Setting aside time just to think is important, he says.
“Almost every day, I start my day with some form of exercise and sometimes that’s where I get my best thoughts,” he said. “If we don’t take care of ourselves internally, you can’t be there in your small business.”
Roberts also devotes a block of time to respond to emails and texts, rather than responding each time he receives one.
“I know that drives some people crazy, but from a time management point of view – being smart and planning your day and sticking with the plan is important,” he said.
Finding useful information
Part of the struggle for small business owners is knowing where to find helpful information on funding sources, training, accounting, human resources management, marketing and other topics, Roberts said. As 2021 chair of Ten at the Top, Roberts oversaw the launch of TATT’s StartGrowUpstate.com.
“If you go to that website, you’ll get a wealth of information in regard to small businesses and the resources that are out there, all in one place,” he said.
Terence Roberts State Farm, 1405 Pearman Dairy Road, Suite B, Anderson SC 29625, (864) 231-9312, terenceroberts.net.
