I know I keep banging on about leaving a written customer review, especially if you have received good service from an independent local business.

But maybe I haven't really explained why, and how your thoughtful action can significantly affect the prosperity of our local traders, and help other shoppers to make a more informed decision.

In a town like Market Harborough, it could be argued that the backbone of its character is its history and generations of people who have contributed over the years to make it the town that we all love.

That's why compared to other neighbouring local towns, local business is thriving and it's great to see the High Street buzzing most days with people and activity, particularly on a Saturday.

But what a different picture we would see if the national supermarket companies took all the trade, and we saw fewer and fewer independent shops in our town centre.

That's why it's so important to support local traders by 'Buying Local' - you've seen all the stickers and publicity - local people who care and offer you better personal service, better quality with often years of local experience.

The Best of Market Harborough will continue to bang the drum for good independent businesses, and you can do the same by leaving your written customer review for others to see, either by card (see below) available at the premises, or on their facebook page (under the 'Our Reviews' tab), or by clicking here.

And if you really need an incentive, then how about this - for each review you write which is then verified, you will be entered into a monthly prize draw which could win you an amazing £100 to spend locally!

And don't just write it once. Think about it - when you look on Trip Advisor when you are choosing a holiday hotel, you are only really influenced by a review which was written within the last month - not a year ago or more when circumstances might have been very different.

You could write a review for the same business every month or two and you would be doing everyone and the business owner a big favour!

National surveys show that when people are choosing a shop or service, more and more each year are influenced by other people's experience.

So your review is significantly helping others to choose, and is significantly helping the business owner to build his/her well earned reputation.

In fact, if your review is for a business recommended on The Bestof Market Harborough, you will also be influencing their claim for this years 'Local Business Of The Year' award, won last year byAdams and Jones Estate Agents.

So please, if you'd like to support the backbone of our town - our local traders - and you've had a good customer experience, give them a boost by leaving them a well earned pat on the back - your written customer review.

And if your experience wasn't so good, still leave a review so the trader can address a problem and if appropriate respond to your complaint or constructive suggestion.

It's an appreciated recommendation for others, and a vote of confidence for the trader and staff. 

And as often is the case, your review will be just enough to influence some complete stranger to shop with your recommendation.

That's the power of 'word of mouth' marketing!

Here's that link again to leave a review for a Bestof Market Harborough recommended business.

Have a great week.

Simon