It’s National Small Business Week! But, just because you run a small business doesn’t mean you have to think small. In fact, every single business you can think of from Apple to Amazon to Nike started small. It’s what those businesses did to stand out that made the difference between staying a small business and dominating an entire industry. But what can a small business with limited resources do to stand out? Here are ten small ways your business can start to make a big splash:

1) Use Social Media

Nothing levels the playing field when it comes to getting the word out about your small business like social media. By utilizing easy to use platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, you can reach your target audiences instantly, from anywhere, to anywhere. That kind of global connectivity can make a big impact.

2) Think Big

The most successful small business owners are always thinking big, and that means setting big goals…even that Big Hairy Audacious Goal. When you set big goals that are made up of smaller, measurable goals, you are well on your way to playing in the big leagues. No goals = no results.

3) Identify Yourself as an Expert

A great opportunity to land major attention is to look for opportunities to identify yourself (and your small business) as the expert. If a breaking news story or trending issue is related to your industry, jump in on the conversation by appearing on a local news or radio show, or even writing an op-ed.

4) Do Good

Everyone loves a company that gives back to their community in some way…especially your target audience. Small businesses can have a big heart, too!

5) Attend Industry Conferences

Whatever your industry might be, I guarantee there are dozens of conferences each year. Get out there and meet other players. Perhaps even offer to keynote or be a panelist at an event.

6) Be a Disruptor

Doing things differently than your competitors, no matter how large they may be, is a surefire way to stand out. Think creatively. Think David and Goliath.

7) Host an Open House

At PFSbrands, we have Discovery Days for our current and potential clients, as well as our industry partners. It serves as a great way to connect, to let your target audience really get to know you, and to explain all the amazing aspects of your products or services.

8) Create an Awesome Culture

If you make the workplace a positive environment, you not only retain great talent, but you attract it as well. And perhaps you are just one A-player away from making that leap to a mid-size business.

9) Hang with the Major Players

If you want to be successful, hang around successful people. If you want to have a successful business, hang around successful businesses.

10) Become a Part of Your Community

Joining your local Chamber of Commerce or Rotary Club is a great way to build community networks that could help expand your business.

Remember, small changes in a small business can have a dramatic impact over time!