I think this would be in this category if not please forgive me. I have a business idea but in order for this to work I would need the cooperation of other local businesses. What would be the best way to get businesses to participate in the business? I know that they would have to have some kind of gain from participating in this business. Also what would be the best way in reaching out to the business? For example if I was sending a letter to Wal-Mart would I write the individual store or the corporation? Thank you for the help in advance. Ideas are greatly appreciated.
I like that you count walmart amongst local businesses, bit of a funny definition you seem to be using.. For big corps like WM, the best route of contact would depend on what type of offer/co-operation you are considering. It also depends on the business' in question hierarchy and business model, some big supermarkets and the like give considerable freedom to local and area managers, others do not, and I don't know where WM stand on that issue. Chances are it would be a lot easier to get in touch with the right person locally, though, so that could be a good place to start and if s/he doesn't have the authority to give you an answer, move on up the ranks as per their recommendation. For smaller local businesses, dress up smart-casual and pop in to their office/shop and ask to speak to the manager. Make sure to prepare well in terms of information regarding your offering, and what it can do for their specific business. Business cards and a leaflet are a given.