If you do search engine marketing then you likely have some form of business. There are several rewarding and profitable ways to engage with your community. Not the online community of SEOs but the offline community of where you live.

David Mihm was recently at his local Chamber of Commerce presenting to small business owners on the subject of SEO. In doing so, not only was David helping out the business owners in attendance but he was also becoming a trusted resource in his community with the very people who are likely to need his services in the first place.

There are many rewards to involving yourself with your local community.

Exposure. Trust. Media references. Helping others. Networking. etc.

Reaching out to your community helps you and it helps your community.

There are several ways to get involved with your community if you wish to do so. You may be surprised at the options available.

Carolyn Shelby of Cshel is here presenting to her Chicago community, she has received many benefits because of such community interaction and you can too.

If you want to get involved with your community, here are few suggestions:

Chamber of Commerce – your community has a chamber of commerce and they very likely offer classes. You can contact your local chamber of commerce and ask them what classes they are offering and how to become involved with teaching. They will probably appreciate it. Their goal is to help local businesses and the internet is a big part of what a business needs to know and understand.

SCORE: Is a non-profit organization that connect business owners with mentors. It is a fabulous resource for all involved. There are local chapters of SCORE just about everywhere and they offer classes as well. Contact your local SCORE office and ask them how you can help. http://www.score.org/

Community leaders: Is your business located in a neighborhood? Like a China Town or a Little Italy? If so you would be impressed by how appreciative the neighborhood association would be if you were to reach out to them and ask if you can help the businesses in the area.

Libraries: The local library is the pillar of local learning and many offer business classes and are seeking volunteers to help teach such classes.

Universities: Stroll onto a campus and vist you local schools or universities and chat with them. Ask them if there is any need for business case studies or classes. Offer to create a class for them. Don’t forget the greeks! Franternities and Sorority Associations are strong networks to be part of.

There are many ways to get involved with your community and the bottom line is it is a great way to become a more valid and trusted source as an SEO or SEM professional.