Skating to Success: How Local Businesses Can Win with Gretzky’s Wisdom
Wayne Gretzky once said, “Skate to where the puck is going, not where it’s been.” As a local business owner, I’ve learned this isn’t about guessing the future—it’s about meeting customers where they already are. Here’s a stat that hit me hard: 76% of consumers say they’re more likely to buy from a brand they feel connected to (Sprout Social, 2023). That’s huge! Your community is your rink, and the puck is moving through their daily lives—local events, online searches, and neighborhood hangouts.
Research backs this up. A 2023 BrightLocal survey found that 62% of consumers use Google to find local businesses, with 36% checking reviews from community events or local sources before buying. Plus, 80% of US consumers search online for local businesses weekly (SOCi, 2024). They’re not waiting for you to predict trends—they’re already out there, looking for you. Gretzky won by being one step ahead. You can too, by showing up where your customers gather.
Here’s how to make it work:
Set up at local spots. Put a table with flyers at the farmer’s market or sponsor a little league team—get your name seen where people are.
Use Google smartly. Claim your Google Business Profile and ask happy customers for reviews—it’s free and helps you pop up in searches.
Show up at community gatherings. Set up a table at farmers markets, sponsor little league teams, or host workshops at the library. The 2024 Community Engagement Report by Nextdoor shows businesses with consistent community presence see 34% higher customer retention.
Skate to where your customers are going—their routines and trusted spaces. That’s how you grow.
