Tag: Local Business Directory

How to Avoid Common Vehicle Storage Issues

Posted on by Robyn Rivera

Believe it or not, long-term storage can be hard on your vehicle.

Lots of things are on pause right now, and with mandatory lockdowns across the country, many of us aren’t using our vehicles very much.

Most people haven’t given much thought to the potential consequences of storing their vehicles without use for so long, and that’s because most people don’t realize that those consequences exist in the first place. However, it’s important to know that there are many problems associated with vehicle storage, as well as what you can do to avoid them.

Today, I hope to help you keep your vehicle running smoothly by going over the most common issues associated with storing your vehicle and what you can do to prevent them.

Common Vehicle Storage Issues and How to Avoid Them

#1. Flat Spots

When your vehicle remains stationary for a long period of time, it means that the entire weight of your vehicle is bearing down on just one spot on your tires that entire time. That can result in the rubber flattening out on the affected portion of the tire.

Flat-spotting isn’t something that will happen in a couple of weeks, but after a month or more of storage, it’s definitely a concern you’ll want to be aware of.

One thing that can increase the risk of flat-spotting is low tire pressure. Make sure to keep your tire pressure at the appropriate levels, which you can find by checking the manufacturer’s recommendations.

#2. Dead Battery

It may seem counterintuitive, but when you drive your vehicle, you’re actually charging its battery. And, when your car is sitting idle for a long period of time, the battery isn’t getting the charge it needs and will eventually die completely. Just because your vehicle is off, it doesn’t mean that it’s not using the battery. This is especially true if you have a high-tech computer and an alarm system.

Disconnecting the battery for vehicle storage is a good way to prevent it from draining even faster/

#3. Fused Brake Pads

When brake rotors are left unused, rust will eventually start to form on them, which can actually cause the rotor to bind to the brake pads if left for too long. Another thing that can cause the brake pads to fuse to the rotors is leaving your car in “Park” for too long, which keeps the brake pad pressed up against the rotor.

If you’re parked on a flat, even surface, don’t store your vehicle with the parking brake on. If you’re parked on an incline, remember that brake repair is preferable to a runaway vehicle, but you can always use a tire stopper to keep your vehicle in place as an alternative.

#4. Paint Degradation

Not only can long-term storage lead to a number of mechanical problems for your vehicle, but it can also damage your vehicle’s paint job. Bird droppings, sun exposure, dust, tree sap, and even water spots from nearby sprinklers can all damage your vehicle’s paint job over time.

If you have the option, park in a garage or under a shelter to protect your vehicle from the elements. If that’s not an option, try to wash your vehicle every few weeks, or, at the very least, spot-clean any necessary areas as needed.

#5. Pest Damage

Parking in a garage helps to protect your vehicle from exposure to the elements. It’s a dry, safe place to put your vehicle, but for these same reasons, the garage is also an ideal home for many different pests, including rats and mice. Unfortunately, these pests can get into your vehicle and cause real damage, like chewed wires and belts.

You can prevent pests from getting into your vehicle by covering any gaps where they could get into it, like the air intake and exhaust pipe. Steel wool is an effective solution for this. You could also consider positioning rat poison or mouse traps around your vehicle. But, even if you take these precautions, check under the hood periodically for pest damage.

#6. Other Issues

The different fluids in your vehicle can degrade in their own way. For instance, the fuel in your vehicle can start to separate, leading to the accumulation of water vapor in your fuel tank. Hoses and gaskets need to be lubricated regularly in order to prevent them from drying out and cracking.

How do you avoid these common vehicle storage problems?

Although there are different steps you can take to eliminate or reduce the risk of some of the above problems, the number one thing you can do to protect your vehicle is simply to drive it every once in a while. Ideally, you should drive your vehicle for 15 to 20 minutes once every two weeks. This will keep everything lubricated, charged, and working like it should.

Find an auto shop near you with Top Rated Local®.

I hope that this blog will help you avoid any problems related to vehicle storage, but if the damage has already been done or your vehicle is in need of maintenance or some other repair, find an auto shop near you with Top Rated Local.

With our one-of-a-kind local business directory, you can read an auto repair shop’s reviews from across the web, which will help you find one you can truly trust.

When you do find the right local auto shop, be sure to call ahead. Many local businesses are operating under different hours, and if you have an appointment, it means less time in the waiting area. When you call, you can also get a good idea of how long the appointment will take. If it will take more than a few minutes, it might be worth arranging for someone to pick you up, if possible.

Find a local auto shop you can trust with Top Rated Local today!

Is it Time for a New Doctor?

Posted on by Robyn Rivera

Finding the right doctor is incredibly important.

The doctor you entrust with your health can have a direct impact on not only the type of care you receive, but also your health outcomes. When you feel comfortable and can trust your doctor, you’re more likely to be upfront with them when you start to experience issues. You’ll also be more likely to actually schedule an appointment when something doesn’t seem right, as well as stay on top of your annual check-ins.

There are a lot of great family doctors and personal care providers out there, but unfortunately, not all of them are made equal, nor are they all a good fit for every patient. If you’re seeing a doctor that you’re not 100 percent sure about, it might be time to start looking for a new one.

Signs it’s Time to Find a New Doctor

#1. You don’t feel like they are listening.

The number one thing you need out of your primary care doctor is to listen to you. If they don’t listen, they can’t properly diagnose anything you may be going through, which means that they won’t be able to help you find an effective treatment option.

If you’re concerned about something, you need to know that that concern will be heard. And, if you don’t feel like your doctor is really listening, it might be time to look for a new one.

#2. It’s nearly impossible to schedule an appointment.

With the coronavirus pandemic, it may be more difficult than usual to schedule a physical appointment, but help should be available to you when you need it. That’s not to say that your primary care doctor should act as an emergency room or an urgent care doctor, but you should be able to schedule an appointment with them — even if it’s a virtual one — when you have concerns.

Doctors are incredibly busy these days, and many of them are requesting that non-essential, routine appointments be pushed back or canceled for the time being. However, many of them are taking appointments over the phone and will see you in person if you have a (non-respiratory) concern.

#3. Your personalities clash.

Sometimes, the problem is not that the doctor isn’t competent or willing to listen; sometimes, it’s just something as simple as conflicting personalities.

In order to get the best care from a primary care physician, you need to be able to be completely honest with them about what’s going on, your lifestyle, etc. If you don’t get along with someone, you’re not likely to feel as comfortable with them as you need to in order to be fully honest with them.

If your personality doesn’t mesh well with your doctor’s personality, don’t hesitate to look for another doctor. This may not seem like a big deal when you compare it to other factors, like a doctor’s experience or treatment style, but it can have a direct impact on the kind of care you receive.

#4. They don’t educate you on your options.

You should never be left wondering why a doctor recommended a specific treatment. You want a doctor who will fully explain the what and why of your treatment options.

If you don’t understand the why behind what your doctor prescribes, you’ll be less inclined to actually stick to it. Plus, if there are other options available to you, you should know what those are, as well as the pros and cons of each option.

When you have a doctor on your side who will educate you on your options, it empowers you to make more informed decisions about your health and wellness.

#5. They don’t respect your concerns or opinions.

You have the right to be a partner in your own health, which means that, when you have an idea, opinion, or concern to share, your doctor should be willing to hear you out with respectful consideration. I’m not saying that your doctor has to agree with everything you say; however, they shouldn’t make you feel silly or stupid about it.

If your doctor doesn’t agree with your opinion or idea, they should be able to tell you why, respectfully, and explain what their reasoning is. They shouldn’t bully you to try something that you’re not comfortable with. Instead, they should fully explain why they believe it’s your best option.

#6. The doctor’s office makes frequent mistakes.

Modern-day doctor’s offices can often be busy, chaotic places. Family care doctors are often required to also become businesspeople when they open their own practices, and that requires a whole other set of skills. Suffice it to say, some doctors handle the task better than others, and some doctor’s offices are better organized and run than others, as well.

The men and women who work at your doctor’s office are human, after all, which means that mistakes will happen from time to time. However, if your doctor’s office has a history of losing your paperwork, sending your prescriptions to the wrong pharmacy, failing to charge your insurance correctly, or making a long list of other common mistakes, it might be time to find a new one.

#7. You don’t feel like you can be honest with them.

There are a lot of areas in life when little white lies are no big deal, like, for instance, when your special someone asks how they look in a certain outfit, but when it comes to your health, honesty is always the best policy.

If nothing else, you should be able to be fully honest with your doctor about what’s going on and any concerns you may be having. Most health concerns only get worse over time without adequate treatment, so it’s important that you feel comfortable enough to tell your doctor what’s going on right away.

Find the right family doctor near you with Top Rated Local®.

If the time has come to find a new physician, start your search with Top Rated Local, where you can read a family doctor’s reviews from a long list of verified reviews sites across the web. We’re your go-to, local business directory, and our Rating Score™ system makes it easy to find great physicians near you.

Start your search for a new doctor with Top Rated Local today. Or, if you’ve already found the right doctor, take a second to leave them a review!

Creative Ways Local Businesses Are Adapting to Coronavirus Restrictions

Posted on by Robyn Rivera

Local businesses have had to surmount a lot of obstacles amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Fear and economic uncertainty have caused consumers to pull back, and social distancing has forced many businesses to shut down their physical locations and completely change the way they do business.

Throughout every recession and difficulty, we’ve faced as a nation, there have always been businesses that have bucked the odds and overcome, and there have already been many success stories coming out amid this one. Businesses that have survived during times like these are always the ones that have been nimble and creative.

Here are a few of the creative things local businesses have done to adapt to the new reality under coronavirus, not only to stay in business, but to give back to their communities.

How Local Businesses Are Adapting to Coronavirus Restrictions

Grocery Stores Keep Seniors Safe

We all want to stay safe and healthy throughout this pandemic, but for many people, the risk is much higher than it is for others. Although there are many things that can affect someone’s risk, age is certainly a factor that can’t be ignored. That’s why, for many older people, even grocery shopping can be scary at a time like this. Luckily, there are some grocery stores that have stepped up to help out.

In order to minimize the risks of being around others, some grocery stores have set aside specific hours just for seniors. Even though this means fewer customers for grocery stores during those hours, it’s a move that helps to keep seniors safe and demonstrates a real concern for their customers and communities.

A Coffee Shop That Delivers

In New York City, a coffee shop that had only been open for a few months had to close their doors. But, instead of accepting defeat, the owners completely changed the business model to start offering online ordering and delivery. They now deliver lattes to their customers’ doors, and they also offer latte kits that allow their customers to recreate their favorite at home.

A coffee shop’s primary source of business comes from people coming in and ordering. Without that ability, many have had to close their doors completely, but instead, this one adapted to online shopping and delivery in order to continue serving their customers.

A Book Store Takes Appointments

With so many people being stuck at home and only eight episodes of Tiger King to binge, a lot of people have a lot of free time on their hands these days. Books have become an essential form of entertainment for many people, but local bookstores across the country have had to close to the public. Some have managed to transition to online shopping, but one store has found a unique solution.

Delivery wasn’t an affordable option for a bookstore, but instead of closing down completely, they decided to make shopping safer for their customers. They allow customers to reserve appointments so they can have the store to themselves for an hour. After every appointment, the store is sanitized.

A Salon Keeps its Clients Looking Great

Barber shops and salons and other businesses that require close, personal interaction in order to operate have had a tougher time than most throughout this pandemic. However, knowing that people need a little pick-me-up right now and could benefit from the confidence that looking their best gives them, one salon has found a new way to stay in business while serving its clients.

Just because this salon was no longer able to serve its clients in person didn’t mean that it had to stop helping them look and feel their best from home. This salon started doing video consultations to teach their clients what they can do at home to keep up with their style. They also started putting together custom color kits with detailed instructions for their clients.

A Distillery Starts Making Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer is in high demand right now, not only by consumers but by countless local businesses as well. Even though it meant a reduction in revenue, one distillery switched its focus to manufacturing hand sanitizer for its community. By offering free hand sanitizer to local businesses and people in its community, this distillery is garnering goodwill and loyalty that will be remembered.

A Bakery Prioritizes Transparency

Many people want to support local businesses in their communities but are uneasy about the idea of taking unnecessary risks. This has been especially concerning for local businesses in the food service industry. One bakery decided to combat its customers fears by making transparency its number one priority.

Lots of businesses have taken precautions to keep customers and employees safe, like taking extra steps to ensure sanitation, ensuring that sick employees stay home, and eliminating physical contact. This bakery has taken its efforts to be transparent one step further by live streamlining its kitchen so that customers can watch the magic happen.

Support the local businesses near you!

Lots of local businesses have bent over backward to serve their communities and give back, even though they are in the midst of coping with their own difficulties. The least we can do is support them!

If you’re looking to support the local businesses in your community while staying safe, one great way to do so is by finding the local businesses you love online and writing a review for them! Reviews can give businesses a morale boost and helps them to stand out online and be more visible. Plus, it’s free to write reviews, which means that you can still support the local businesses you love even if you can’t do so financially.

Check out my previous blog to learn about a few more ways you can support your favorite local businesses during the coronavirus pandemic. And, find the businesses you love on Top Rated Local® today to leave your review!

Your Guide to Bicycle Maintenance

Posted on by Robyn Rivera

In much of the U.S., the weather is perfect for a bike ride.

The sky is clear, the sun is shining, and the birds are chirping. Spring is here at last, and there’s no better way to celebrate than to get on your bicycle and pedal.

Thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, there are few activities outside of the home that are still acceptable, but luckily, riding your bicycle is still one of them (at least for now). Riding a bicycle is an excellent way to keep your heart pumping, which can help to keep your immune system strong and working properly.

Riding your bicycle is fun and gets you moving, but it’s important to stay safe while you’re out riding. Right now, that means steering clear of crowded trails. Social distancing rules still apply when you’re on a bike, so you’ll want to avoid riding where there will be lots of other people out riding, walking, and running. Instead, try exploring a new neighborhood or riding in the early morning to avoid crowds.

In addition to protecting yourself while you’re out riding, you also need to make sure that your bicycle is mechanically ready for use in the spring, especially if it’s been sitting in your garage or storage shed all winter.

How to Prepare Your Bicycle for Spring

Step #1. Give your bike a scrub.

Not only will cleaning your bike make it look like new again; a clean bike is a well-functioning bike. Leaving dirt and grime on your bike for a long period of time makes it look uncared for, but caked-on dirt and grime can actually degrade the parts of your bike, so it’s important to clean it off every so often.

In addition to making your bike look pretty and protecting it from degradation, giving your bike a quick bath will also help to inspire you to get out and ride it! It can be difficult to find motivation with everything going on, and any little bit helps at a time like this.

Step #2. Clean and lubricate the chain.

Your bike’s chain is essential and should be taken care of properly. If your chain is dirty, worn out, or rusty, it’s not going to do you any favors and will likely make pedaling much more difficult than it has to be.

If there’s any muck or grime on your chain, gently wipe it off with a washcloth. Then, lightly grease your chain with chain oil. This will help to keep it moving smoothly. If your chain is looking rusty or worn out, it might be time to get it replaced.

Step #3. Manually test your gears.

When your gears are running easily and smoothly, it makes your ride better and helps you get more power every time you pedal. Before you pull your bike out for spring, you’ll want to ensure that its gears are working perfectly.

Turn your bicycle upside down, and shift your bike into each gear while manually pedaling it with your other hand. Watch out for any signs of sticking gears or wear and tear.

Step #4. Check your tires.

Visually inspect your tires carefully, checking to ensure that the rubber hasn’t worn down in certain areas or there are signs of any damage, like cracking. When you spin your tires, it’s important that they spin smoothly with no signs of wobbling.

If your tires are worn down or damaged, you may need to replace them. If not, make sure they are properly inflated before riding your bicycle. Check for the recommended air pressure on the tire itself.

Step #5. Make sure your brakes are in good shape.

From a safety standpoint, brakes are one of the most important features on your bicycle, and it’s imperative to ensure that they’re working properly before you get your bike out for spring. When you pull the brake levers, they should engage the both sides of the brake pads on both wheels.

If the brake is working properly, it should fully stop the tire in motion without sticking. If the brake cable is sticky or frayed, it should be replaced. If the rubber on the brake pads is worn down, they should be replaced.

Find a bike shop near you with Top Rated Local®!

These bicycle maintenance tips are a great place to start, but in some cases, professional bicycle services may be required. If that’s the case, you can find a great local bike shop to work with near you with Top Rated Local.

Depending on where you live, there may or may not be bike shops open for business, but even in states where they’re not considered to be essential businesses, many are offering remote repair and maintenance services that you could take advantage of.

Find bicycle maintenance and repair near you today!

Why Writing Reviews is a Great Way to Support Local Businesses

Posted on by Robyn Rivera

Looking for a way to support the local businesses you love?

It’s no secret that small businesses have been hit hard by the coronavirus — and the social distancing requirements necessary to prevent it from spreading. Some small businesses have been able to remain open by changing the way they serve their customers, but others have had to temporarily close their doors completely.

There are lots of ways that you can lend financial support to the local businesses you love. This may include purchasing gift cards, pre-paying for future appointments, and ordering take-out or delivery from restaurants. But, what if your budget doesn’t allow you to financially support the local businesses you love?

There’s one surefire way to support your favorite local businesses without having to spend a dime — write reviews! How does writing reviews benefit the business you love?

5 Ways Writing Reviews Can Impact Local Businesses

#1. It will help them stand out online.

Thanks to the quarantine much of the country is under stay at home orders and lots of people are now online a lot more than they used to be. That means many businesses are also online, which means that your favorite local businesses have a great deal of competition online. A lot of people are under the misconception that all a business needs to be competitive online is a website, but that’s just not the case. The good news, though, is that writing reviews is a great way to help your favorite local businesses stand out online.

The first thing a consumer does when researching a local business online is to look at its reviews. If a business has lots of five-star reviews and a decent overall star average, it helps to build trust and credibility. You can help by writing your own review of your past experience!

#2. It will help them be more visible online.

The most affordable way for a business to be visible online is to show up on page one of the organic search results. Otherwise, that business has to spend money on paid search ads, which can be expensive and especially difficult for businesses facing budgetary issues. Luckily, writing a review can actually help your favorite local business rank higher in the organic search results.

Google’s search ranking algorithm is a multi-faceted, ever-changing beast, but one thing has always remained the same — reviews have always been an important part of it. Think about it, if 10 businesses describe themselves as “the best plumber in Denver,” it doesn’t mean much, but when multiple customers say that about a business in its reviews, it really means something to consumers, and therefore, to Google. By reviewing your favorite local businesses, you can actually help them to be more visible online.

#3. It helps them better serve you.

There are a lot of great reasons to stick with your favorite local businesses, even though they may not be perfect. After all, no one is perfect, but if a business has proven to you that they care and are willing to do what it takes to provide you with a good experience, I’d say that they’re worth it. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t give them feedback.

Five-star reviews are great for any business, but they’re not always indicative of your experience, and that’s OK. You should never lie about your experience with a business, even if you think it will help them. Believe it or not, even a one-star review can help your favorite local business. It may not do much for their average star rating, but it allows you to give them feedback they can use to get better. Plus, when they reach out to you to make it right, you can always go back and revise your star rating and even your review.

#4. It informs other consumers about your experience.

Did you know that most consumers these days trust online reviews written by complete strangers just as much as they trust a personal recommendation from a friend or family member? Surprisingly enough, reviews have become the modern-day version of word of mouth, and by writing your own, you can inform others about your experience.

Reviews aren’t meant to be a platform for venting frustrations or giving undue praise. At the heart of reviews, they’re about sharing your real experience with a business that can inform others of the experience they’re likely to have. If you’ve had a good experience with a local business (or several good experiences) in the past, sharing that experience will absolutely help them perform better online and drum up more business.

#5. It leads to more sales!

When someone reads a business’ reviews, not only are they looking for a good overall average star rating and plenty of five-star reviews, they’re also looking for current reviews. It doesn’t matter if a business has hundreds or even thousands of reviews, if those reviews are months old, they won’t help all that much.

Writing reviews right now will help the local businesses you love remain relevant online, because it helps to keep their reviews current. Not only does this help a business be more visible online and build more trust with potential customers, it will also lead directly to more sales. As much as 63 percent of consumers are more likely to actually make a purchase if the site has current rankings.

Start reviewing your favorite local businesses with Top Rated Local® today!

If you’re not in the position right now to support your favorite local businesses, that’s OK. You’re not alone, and there’s no need to skip your rental payment or electricity bill in order to support the local businesses you love. In fact, you can make an impact just by writing a review.

Support the local businesses that make your community what it is by writing reviews on Top Rated Local today!

7 Uplifting Stories to Brighten Your Day

Posted on by Robyn Rivera

There’s a lot of uncertainty in the world right now, and it can feel like a very dark place in many ways. However, the worst circumstances tend to bring out the best in some people, and there are a ton of stories out there that can help to shine a light on the world right now and bring a little positivity to your life.

Brighten Your Day With 7 Uplifting Stories

Story #1. 3D printing for the frontlines of the pandemic.

James Fambrough, a Marketing Executive at Marketing 360® and owner of Maker 3D Printing, has stepped up in a big way to help the men and women on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic by printing respiratory face masks and face shields for hospitals, doctors, and first responders in Northern Colorado.

Before the coronavirus pandemic, James was establishing Maker 3D Printing’s YouTube channel, which was devoted to educating people about 3D printing, but within just a few days of the quarantine, Maker 3D Printing had partnered with Wuxn 3D to print PPE for healthcare workers. In addition to printing PPE, Maker 3D Printing offers templates on its website for COVID-19 respirator masks, face shields, and ventilator valves along with instructions, allowing others with 3D printers to help make a difference.

Visit Maker 3D Printing online today to learn more, download 3D printing templates, or donate to the cause!

Story #2. Cities cheer healthcare workers.

The people who are on the front lines of this pandemic are absolutely the healthcare workers who compassionately take care of the people in their care despite the risk of getting infected themselves. The people of New York City and other big cities from around the country have decided to head onto their roofs or open their windows to applaud the men and women who put their lives on the line each day to take care of others every night at 7 pm.

The #ClapBecauseWeCare movement started circulating on social media last Friday. If you’re in a big city and would like to be a part of it, or if you’d like to learn more, click here.

Story #3. Peyton Manning donates blood.

Social distancing restrictions are necessary for preventing widespread infection, but there are many unforeseen complications that come with it. One of these consequences is the decline in blood donations. With blood drives being canceled across the country, there is now a severe shortage of blood donations for those who need them.

Lots of people are feeling helpless and looking for ways to help, and donating blood is a great way to make a difference right now. Peyton Manning, along with Brandon Stokley, decided to lead by example by donating blood to the Children’s Hospital Colorado’s Blood Donor Center on Thursday.

Click here to learn more about Peyton’s donation and how to make your own.

Story #4. Italians connect using music.

Struck hard by coronavirus, Italians have been quarantined in their homes for weeks. With physical distance separating them, many Italians have learned to connect with each other in other ways, namely, with music.

With the help of a radio station, people all over Italy tuned in to the same station and sang their national anthem in unison. Many opened their windows or wandered onto balconies so that they could fly Italian flags and sing with their neighbors and community.

Click here to learn more and watch the many videos of this touching moment of solidarity.

Story #5. NBA players cover the wages of arena workers who have lost their jobs.

The cancelation of the rest of the NBA season came so abruptly that it happened right before tipoff of the Oklahoma City Thunder/Utah Jazz game, after a Jazz player tested positive for coronavirus. Not only did this affect the players, the coaches, the team owners, and the many, many fans, it also affected thousands of arena employees who were immediately out of their livelihood.

This fact has not been lost to NBA players, and many have set out to help the people who, they say, are a critical part of what makes going to games so great. Three of the players that have come out to support arena employees include Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Love, and Zion Williamson, who have all pledged thousands of dollars to protect the paychecks of the workers in their home arenas.

Click here to learn more about how NBA players have rallied to help arena workers.

Story #6. Uber Eats is making delivery possible.

The vast majority of businesses have been affected by coronavirus and the social distancing requirements designed to prevent its spread, but restaurants have been among the hardest hit. Many restaurants have adapted to offering carry-out and — for the ones that can — delivery options for the first time in order to avoid closing their dogs altogether. However, for many independent restaurants, delivery has not been an option.

UberEats has set out to make delivery possible for independent restaurants by waiving delivery fees. According to Uber Eats, that’s no small feat, as there are more than 100,000 independent restaurants on the app.

Click here to learn more about how Uber Eats is making delivery possible for thousands of independent restaurants.

Story #7. Neighbors support each other through Nextdoor.

For many people, getting the essentials they need is as easy as going to the grocery store or the pharmacy while maintaining a six-foot distance and washing their hands carefully afterward. But, for millions of Americans, the risk of going to the grocery store or the pharmacy is just too high to take. Luckily, people have been using the Nextdoor app to connect with their neighbors and help those in need.

People falling into high-risk categories have been reaching out to their neighbors on Nextdoor requesting help with things like grocery shopping and pharmacy pickups, and their neighbors have been stepping up in large numbers to help. Nextdoor has even launched a Help Map to make connecting with your neighbors in need easier.

There’s no denying that things are tough for a lot of people right now, but there are plenty of good things going on that can uplift and inspire you.

There are so many ways that you can do your part to help during this difficult time. One such way is to leave a review for the small businesses you love and rely on in your community. Those reviews help small businesses stand out online and can provide a little encouragement for a small business that really needs it.

Find your favorite local businesses with Top Rated Local® — your go-to business directory — today and leave a review!

Why We Love Local Businesses (and You Should, Too!)

Posted on by Robyn Rivera

Local businesses are the lifeblood of the communities they serve.

It’s no secret that, here at Top Rated Local®, we have a thing for local businesses. In fact, we love them so much that we’ve dedicated ourselves to helping them manage their online reputations effectively, while also connecting them with consumers in their communities.

Why do we love local businesses so much? Because of what they do for their communities and for the people they serve day in and day out. There’s no doubt about it, small businesses are special, and they’re a big part of what makes their communities so great.

The coronavirus pandemic has hit all of us hard, and small businesses are no exception. The social distancing requirements necessary to minimize the spread of coronavirus have also led to countless restaurants, retail stores, and other local businesses having to temporarily close their doors.

The good news is that there are many ways that you can still support the local businesses in your community. Check out our previous blog to learn about a few of them, and keep reading to learn about the many reasons why you should make it a point to support them.

5 Ways Local Businesses Benefit Their Communities

#1. By creating local jobs.

When compared to the many giant corporations that employ tens of thousands of people, the jobs created by small businesses may seem like a drop in the hat. However, all of those small businesses ( and the jobs they create) really add up. They make up 64 percent of all private sector jobs in the United States.

That’s a lot of jobs, and thanks to the fact that small businesses are invested in their local communities, those jobs tend to stay local. When small businesses succeed, the many people they employ also succeed, which ripples across the economy as a whole.

According to The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC), small businesses are an essential part of creating economic self-sufficiency and eliminating poverty in the United States.

#2. By keeping money in the community.

A corporation’s number one goal is to please its shareholders, which is why corporations generally make financial decisions with their shareholders in mind. This might mean investing in stock buybacks or dividends when corporations have extra cash on hand. For small businesses, though, which often work with local supply chains and employ local people, any money made goes directly back to the community they serve.

Additionally, big box stores and corporations tend to try to save as much money on their taxes as possible by exploiting every possible loophole. This may be why small businesses actually contribute more in tax revenue to local economies than corporations do.

Local businesses also do more by making charitable contributions that directly affect their communities. In addition to giving to local food banks and other nonprofit organizations, small businesses help to make many other things possible, including sports leagues and teams, as well as the school paper and yearbook.

#3. By innovating.

When it comes to innovation, corporations have nothing on small businesses. According to research from the Small Business Administration (SBA), when compared to large corporations, small businesses produce 16 times the number of patents per employee. This innovation might look like creating new products, improving existing products, developing new methods or processes, and finding new supply sources.

Part of what holds many corporations back from innovation is their shareholders. Shareholders are, in general, adverse to risk, and innovation, in most cases, is definitely a risk. However, many corporations have started to model their operations to be more like startups to try to spark some of that innovation.

The innovation that comes from small businesses has the potential to positively affect neighborhoods, towns, and entire communities.

#4. By reinforcing the personality of the community.

What is it that makes a community special? There are many answers to this question, but nothing makes a community quite as unique as the small businesses that serve it. After all, most communities have the same big box stores as every other community, but only small businesses reinforce the personality of that community.

Small business owners aren’t separated from the communities they serve. In addition to running their own business, they’re residents just like everyone else, which means that they share the goals of the community and recognize what makes it special. And, instead of relying on the decisions of a few corporate bigwigs, small businesses have the flexibility to evolve with the times to meet the changing needs and goals of their community.

#5. By supporting other small businesses.

Big box stores rely on large volumes of sales, which means that their number one priority is to keep prices low. This can result in predatory marketing strategies and pricing that ends up putting small businesses in the community at risk.

Small businesses, on the other hand, still compete with one another for their share of the market, but the difference is that they are operating and competing on the same level. That means that the best businesses win out, rather than just the biggest.

Small businesses also aren’t a threat to other businesses in the community. Big box stores, like Walmart, tend to offer a wide range of products that can put a wide range of small businesses out of business, like beauty supply stores, hardware stores, pet stores, auto supply stores, craft stores, homeware stores, and more.

Show your appreciation for the local business in your community.

Local businesses do so much for the communities they serve, and right now, they’re facing difficulties that could be difficult, if not impossible, to recover from. Do your part and give back to the incredible businesses that make your community such a wonderful place.

Learn how to support the local businesses in your community safely throughout the coronavirus pandemic by checking out my previous blog. And, turn to Top Rated Local, your go-to local business directory, to find the right local businesses for your needs.

How to Find Reliable Cleaning Solutions

Posted on by Robyn Rivera

Cleaning is a critical aspect of coronavirus prevention.

With more cases now than anywhere else in the world, a lot of people in the United States are a lot more alert when it comes to coronavirus. But, the good news is that the Centers for Disease Control have outlined several steps you can take to protect yourself, namely social distancing, hand washing, and cleaning.

Cleaning is not something we all have the ability to do for ourselves for a variety of reasons, which means that many people right now are searching for cleaning solutions that can help them protect themselves against coronavirus. And, now more than ever, you need those cleaning solutions to be reliable

There are so many incredible house cleaning and janitorial companies out there on the front lines of this pandemic, but it’s also important to note that not all of them are made equal. When you’re relying on a business to protect you against coronavirus, it’s essential that you’ve chosen the right one.

What to Look for in a Cleaning Service

#1. Happy Clients

When you’re searching online for a house cleaning or janitorial service near you, it’s not always easy to tell one company from the next, especially since most of them will claim to be the best in the business. What a business says about itself only means so much, but what a business’ clients say about it can make all the difference.

The first thing you should do when looking for any local business is to read its reviews, and a cleaning service is no exception. A great place to do that is Top Rated Local®, where you can read a business’ reviews from not just Top Rated Local, but from every verified review platform the business is listed on across the web.

Top Rated Local also guides reviews by allowing clients to rate businesses based on the five pillars of the customer experience — quality, value, timeliness, experience, and satisfaction — which will help you gain a better understanding of what working with the business is really like. Furthermore, you can quickly learn about a business’ overall online reputation with Top Rated Local’s Rating Score™ system, which ranks businesses out of 100.00 based on the number of review sites they’re listed on, how many reviews they have on those sites, and the average rating of those reviews, among other things.

#2. Experience

You need a house cleaning or janitorial company you can rely on to do a thorough job without cutting corners, and to have the know-how to get the job done correctly the first time. That means that you need a company with experience.

It’s important to note that experience is more than just about time on the job. Time on the job is certainly important, because it proves that a business has learned to evolve with the changing times over the years, which is definitely something that’s certainly valuable at this point in time. But, you also want to know that a cleaning company you choose the work with has the right kind of experience.

#3. Safety

Safety is absolutely something that should be on your mind right now, and that includes in finding a local house cleaning or janitorial company to work with. There are also many aspects to the safety question to consider.

First and foremost, it’s important to ensure that any company you choose to rely on has taken steps to protect both its clients and its employees amid the coronavirus pandemic. Some of these measures may include limiting the amount of people who come into the office by staggering times for people to collect the supplies they need, as well as ensuring that everyone cleaning your home has the appropriate protective equipment and that they’re using the appropriate cleaning supplies.

It’s also important to ensure that any company you choose to work with is compliant with OSHA and is dedicated to taking steps to protect your privacy. Having someone clean your home or business takes a lot of trust, and you want to make sure that the business you choose is worthy of that trust.

#4. Employees Rather Than Contract Workers

Some house cleaning companies and janitorial companies employ their workers while others rely on contract cleaners to get the job done. Both types of cleaning companies can be a good choice, but at a time like this, you’ll probably be better off by choosing to work with a cleaning company that employs its workers. There are multiple reasons for this.

First, employees are generally held at higher standards than contractors, and there is usually a lot more oversight within organizations that have employees. Employees also generally go through more intensive background checks and training, which can help to give you more peace of mind.

Furthermore, contract workers aren’t eligible for the kind of protections cleaning workers need at the moment, like health insurance, paid sick leave, and other benefits. It’s incredibly important that whoever is cleaning your home or business is healthy and won’t be forced to keep working if they’re sick.

#5. Insurance

For your protection, as well as that of the people who will be cleaning your home or business, you want to ensure that any cleaning company you work with is properly insured. If something is damaged or broken during the cleaning process, or if someone is hurt, insurance will protect you and your property just as much as it will protect the company against liability.

Find a local house cleaning or janitorial service today.

If you’re looking for a cleaning solution you can rely on to help to protect you or your employees against coronavirus, start with Top Rated Local. As your number one local business directory, we make it easy to learn about a business’ online reputation across the web from one site. Get started today!

Buying Gift Cards & Other Ideas to Support Local Businesses

Posted on by Robyn Rivera

Local businesses need our support more than ever before.

You may not be able to visit your favorite local businesses right now, but that doesn’t mean that you have to stop supporting them. In fact, there are lots of ways you can still support them, and it’s a good thing, too. Right now, those businesses need our support more than ever.

Local businesses are the lifeblood of the communities they serve, but the spread of coronavirus has made it impossible for many local businesses to keep their doors open, and difficult for many others. You can help to mitigate some of that fallout by making it a point to support the local businesses you love.

We all have a favorite local restaurant, boutique, flower shop, etc. that we’ve turned to time and time again, and if you are looking to extend your support to your favorite local businesses, you’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of ways you can help without actually visiting them in person.

How to Support Local Businesses Affected by Coronavirus

Buy a gift card.

Do you have a monthly appointment with a local beauty salon or barber shop? The money you would have used on your appointment can still go to the business now, even if you can’t get your hair done quite yet. Buying a gift card is one of the most direct ways to support local businesses near you, and it means that you’ll have your next haircut paid for already.

In addition to offering financial support, buying a gift card also helps you offer moral support to local businesses that may be struggling. It shows that you’re so confident in them that you’re willing to pay in advance for their services, and that goes a long way.

Some businesses may be offering gift cards online, so their website is a great place to start looking for a gift card. You may also consider calling them. Even if their doors aren’t open, they may be answering their phone.

Order delivery or takeout.

You may not be able to visit your go-to restaurant at the moment, but many are offering carry-out and/or delivery options in lieu of in-person dining. According to the FDA and CDC, there’s no evidence thus far that coronavirus can be spread through food or food packaging, which makes ordering take-out or delivery a safe way to support local restaurants and bars at this point. But, there are some safety rules you’ll want to keep in mind.

If you order carry-out, make sure to follow the same safety procedures you’d follow in any other situation — stay at least six feet away from others, don’t go out if you’re exhibiting any symptoms, and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds after contact.

If you order delivery, consider choosing a no-contact delivery option for the safety of both you and the delivery driver, and pay/tip over the app or online instead of using cash, if possible. Immediately wash your hands for at least 20 seconds after moving the food to your own dishes and disposing of the packaging.

Don’t cancel appointments; reschedule them.

If you don’t have the financial means to buy a gift card but want to give them as much of a morale boost as possible during this time, consider rescheduling any upcoming appointments you may have with them rather than canceling them outright.

A little positivity can go a long way during times like these. Showing that you’re confident in them enough to keep an appointment on the books will help them to find a reason to stay positive.

Show your support online.

There are so many ways to support local businesses that go beyond supporting them in person, and these days, when a business’ online reputation can make or break their success, your online support can count for a lot. If you’ve worked with a local business many times, now is the perfect time to write a review for them online.

Reviews are beneficial to local businesses in many, many ways. For one, people trust reviews, and by recommending a local business in a review, you’re helping to generate more customers for them. Reviews can also help businesses rank higher in organic search results, which will help to improve the visibility of the business online.

The great thing about writing reviews for your favorite local businesses is that it doesn’t require you to spend any money, which may or may not be an option for you at this time. And, any positive words you have for the local businesses you love will surely help them to keep their heads held high until we get through this.
In addition to writing reviews for the local businesses you want to support, it’s also a good idea to spread the word about how awesome they are on social media.

Ask how you can help!

Not every business offers delivery or sells gift cards, and if you’re running out of ideas on how to support them during this difficult time, why not call and ask them? At the end of the day, every local business is different, and they’ll know best what you can do to support their own unique journey.

Write reviews for the local businesses you love today!

Just because you can’t eat at your favorite local restaurant doesn’t mean that you can’t still support them. I hope that this blog will inspire you to give a little love to the local businesses that work so hard to make your community what it is.

One of the easiest and most cost effective ways to support your favorite local businesses is by writing reviews, and that’s where we come in. With Top Rated Local, not only can you write a review, but you’ll be able to rank local businesses based on the five pillars of the customer experience, which will help you provide more effective feedback. You’ll also know exactly which verified review sources the business is listed on without having to visit a bunch of different websites.

Find the local businesses you love on Top Rated Local today!

Coronavirus Safety Tips for Buying or Selling a Home

Posted on by Robyn Rivera

Buying or selling a home can be stressful in the best of times.

Did you know that moving and buying or selling a home are considered to be some of the most stressful life events people deal with? And, that was before the coronavirus pandemic.

Like almost everything else in life, the coronavirus pandemic has changed the way that we buy and sell homes in the United States. But, if you’re in the market — or about to be — you’ll be glad to know that it’s alive and well.

Although it’s too soon to really know how much of an impact COVID-19 will have on the real estate market, for now, historically low interest rates have led a lot of buyers into the market, many for the first time. While a lot of industries have pushed paused, the real estate industry remains strong.

The real estate market is still kicking, but that doesn’t mean that coronavirus hasn’t had an effect or that there aren’t any precautions you need to take in order to keep yourself safe during the process.

Staying Safe While Buying or Selling a Home During the Coronavirus Pandemic

#1. Find the right real estate agent.

Whether you’re buying or selling a home in the midst of a booming economy or during a pandemic, you always want to do so with the right real estate agent on your side. One of the most important aspects of staying safe during the coronavirus crisis is social distancing, which means limiting your contact as much as possible with others during the buying or selling process. That also means that working with a REALTOR® you can trust is absolutely essential.

Flexibility is another valuable quality in any real estate, but as things change rapidly with the coronavirus outbreak, it’s even more valuable. You need your real estate agent to be nimble and agile enough to cope with the changing market in order to get you through the process.

Find a real estate agent near you with Top Rated Local®. You’ll be able to read a REALTOR’s reviews from across a variety of verified review sites. And, with the Rating Score™, you can get a quick snapshot of how each real estate agent is ranking overall online, allowing you to quickly compare.

#2. Take advantage of virtual tours.

In the age of coronavirus, fewer buyers are opting to attend home showings in person, and even fewer sellers are hosting open houses. This is a good thing for the safety of everyone involved — the buyer, the seller, and the real estate agent — but it can be difficult for buyers to truly get a feel for a home with pictures alone.

The fact of the matter is that pictures can be misleading. Just because a home looks great in photos doesn’t mean it will look just as good in person, and most buyers need more information in order to commit to buying a home. This is where virtual tours come in.

Many real estate brokers and sellers have opted to provide buyers with digital house tours through FaceTime and other programs. In fact, Zillow has seen a 215 percent increase in the number of tours created using its software since the pandemic hit. Some brokers have even started video taping themselves touring homes.

#3. Prepare carefully for showings.

If someone is really serious about wanting to buy a home, chances are, they’re going to want to see it in person. Virtual tours are great, but they can’t replace in-person showings completely. And, luckily, by taking several precautions, buyers and sellers can stay safe during in-person showings.

Here are a few precautions sellers can take for in-person showings:

  • Limit showings to only people who are truly interested.
  • Limit the need for anyone to touch anything by keeping lights on and doors open.
  • Sanitize your home before and after showings.
  • Require that anyone coming into your home wears gloves and booties.

Here are a few precautions buyers can take for in-person showings:

  • Only request in-person showings for homes you’re seriously considering.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before and after seeing a home.
  • If you’re sick, do not attend a showing.
  • Refrain from touching anything while touring a home.

What to expect at closing.

Many parts of the buying or selling process can be done remotely, with about half of the states allowing notaries to do their jobs virtually. However, as of right now, in-person closings are still happening in states where notaries cannot operate digitally, but, of course, there are a few differences.

These days, in accordance with CDC guidelines, there can be a maximum of five people at a closing. Closings are often done around larger tables, as well, which allows everyone to maintain a six-foot distance from each other, and everyone has their own pen so no sharing is required.

Find the right real estate broker near you with Top Rated Local.

Whether you’re buying a home, selling a home, or both, there’s a lot on the line, especially right now. Make the situation a little less stressful by ensuring that you have the right real estate broker on your side.

Don’t settle for just any real estate agent. Ensure you’ve found the right one by doing your research with Top Rated Local. Get started today!