Summer's here, and so are new opportunities to connect with customers.

From Instagram engagement tactics to AI-powered search trends and local networking opportunities, this week's MRKT is packed with practical tips and ideas, including:

• A simple Instagram Story strategy that generates more DMs by turning taps, polls, and quizzes into real conversations.

• The UGC secret most businesses overlook and how to turn happy customers into a steady source of authentic content.

• A local networking opportunity you won't want to miss as PVD Monthly celebrates 30 years of community, connections, and local stories.

• Why Google Search is changing and what Rhode Island businesses should do now to stay visible as customers search in new ways.

More DMs, Less Selling: The Instagram Story Strategy That Works

If you're trying to generate more leads through Instagram, here's a simple shift that can make a big difference: stop asking for DMs first.

Most people won't immediately message a business. They will, however, tap a poll, answer a question, or take a quick quiz. Those small interactions create a sense of involvement and make people much more likely to continue the conversation.

The 3-Story Formula

Story 1: Ask a simple question

Use a Poll, Quiz, or Question sticker to spark engagement.

Examples:

• Newport or Narragansett?

• Lobster roll or clam cakes?

• Would you try this new menu item?

• What's your favorite hidden gem in Rhode Island?

Story 2: Share the results

Show your audience what people said and add your own perspective.

Example:
"Looks like Narragansett won by a landslide. Here's one beach spot locals love..."

Story 3: Invite the DM

Now offer something useful.

Examples:

• Want our full Rhode Island summer guide? Send us a message.

• Interested in this event? DM us for details.

• Want our homeowner maintenance checklist? We'll send it over.

Industry Ideas

Restaurants: Poll followers on specials, menu items, or local favorites.

Retail: Let customers vote on new products before they arrive.

Service Businesses: Ask customers their biggest challenge and answer it in Stories.

Tourism & Hospitality: Create local recommendation polls and follow up with guides or itineraries.

Try This This Week

Run one poll, share the results, and follow up with a simple DM offer. You'll often generate more conversations than a traditional "Message Us" post because it feels like a natural next step—not a sales pitch.

The UGC Secret: Most Businesses Don't Have a Content Problem

Many small businesses believe user-generated content (UGC) comes from influencers. In reality, the best UGC often comes from happy customers.

People are already taking photos, leaving reviews, and sharing experiences. The businesses winning with UGC simply make it easy—and rewarding—for customers to participate.

Three Ways to Get More UGC

1. Ask at the Right Time

The best opportunity comes right after a positive experience.

Try:

• "Tag us if you share this."

• "We'd love to see your photos."

• "Show us how you're using it."

2. Feature Your Customers

When customers see real people highlighted on your social media, website, or newsletter, participation increases.

Recognition is often more motivating than a discount.

3. Turn Reviews Into Content

Reviews are one of the most overlooked content assets.

A single customer review can become:

• An Instagram post

• A Story graphic

• A website testimonial

• A newsletter feature

Create Moments Worth Sharing

Some of the best UGC comes from experiences people naturally want to document.

Think:

• Community events

• Customer appreciation nights

• Workshops

• Pop-ups

• Seasonal celebrations

Quick Win

Choose one customer review this week and turn it into a social media post. Then feature one customer photo or story in your next Story or newsletter.

The formula is simple:

Create an experience → Ask for participation → Feature customers → Repeat

That's how community-driven brands turn customers into advocates.

PVD Monthly Turns 30 🎉

Looking to make new connections, meet fellow business owners, and spend an evening with some of Rhode Island's most engaged community builders? We've got just the event for you.

Join us tonight, June 17, from 6–9 PM at Medici Lounge in Providence as we celebrate 30 years of PVD Monthly.

While there will be plenty of cocktails, music, and birthday-worthy festivities, this is also a fantastic opportunity to network with local entrepreneurs, marketers, creatives, community leaders, and business owners from across the Ocean State.

Whether you're looking for new customers, collaborators, referral partners, or simply want to expand your local network, you'll be in good company.

Expect:

• Meaningful conversations with local professionals

• New business connections and community partnerships

• Light bites, music, and a lively atmosphere

• A complimentary drink from Loyal Lemonade (while supplies last)

Most of us spend so much time working in our businesses that we rarely get the chance to connect with the people building Rhode Island alongside us. Consider this your invitation to do exactly that.

Come celebrate, make a few new connections, and raise a glass to 30 years of local stories, local businesses, and local community.

Please RSVP if you plan to attend so we can plan accordingly. We hope to see you there!

Google Search Is Getting Smarter. Here's What That Means for Your Business.

he way people search online is changing fast.

Instead of typing a few keywords, customers are now asking full questions, uploading photos, and searching in more natural ways. Think: "Where can I get the best lobster roll near Narragansett?" or "Who installs mini-splits in Rhode Island?"

The good news? You don't need to be a tech expert to benefit. You just need to become the best answer.

What Rhode Island Businesses Should Do

Answer customer questions.
Turn your most common FAQs into social media posts, videos, or website content.

Show real photos.
Customers—and search engines—love authentic images of your products, team, projects, and space.

Ask for detailed reviews.
Encourage customers to mention what they purchased or what service you provided. Those details help future customers find you.

Keep your Google Business Profile updated.
Add fresh photos, verify your hours, choose the correct business category, and post updates regularly. It's often the first place potential customers discover your business.

Easy Post Ideas

Restaurants: "What's our most popular summer menu item?"

Retail: "5 local gift ideas under $50."

Home Services: "One mistake Rhode Island homeowners make every summer."

Breweries: "What's on tap this weekend?"

Tourism & Hospitality: "Three hidden gems visitors shouldn't miss."

The 30-Minute AI Search Checklist

This week:

✓ Add 5 new photos to your Google Business Profile

✓ Ask 2 happy customers for reviews

✓ Post an answer to one frequently asked question

✓ Share a behind-the-scenes photo or video

As search gets smarter, the businesses that stand out won't necessarily be the biggest—they'll be the most helpful. Make it easy for customers to find answers, and they'll be more likely to find you..