As a journalist, I interviewed Leila Bedoian, the owner of The Local St. Augustine, a retro-style motel in Anastasia Island. She spoke out after President Joe Biden signed a bill that could potentially lead to a nationwide TikTok ban.
Bedoian explained that TikTok is integral to their business as they utilize the platform to showcase their hotel and promote the local St. Augustine community. When designing the property, Bedoian and her team aimed to create a space that people would be excited to share on social media. The transformation of the motel from rundown to vibrant has garnered national recognition, with USA Today naming it the number one roadside hotel in the country in 2022.
Small business owners like Bedoian rely on TikTok to reach new customers and increase brand awareness. The platform’s algorithm and search function have allowed her to consistently connect with a larger audience and drive organic growth for her business. Research from Oxford Economics shows that small businesses in Florida generated millions in tax revenue and supported numerous jobs through their use of TikTok in 2021.
Bedoian worries about the impact a potential ban could have on her business and others like hers. Finding an alternative platform that provides a similar reach and engagement will prove challenging, especially for those with limited marketing budgets. Despite her concerns, Bedoian remains hopeful that lawmakers will consider the interests of small business owners who rely on platforms like TikTok for their success.
In conclusion, Leila Bedoian’s story highlights how important social media platforms like TikTok can be for small businesses looking to reach new customers and increase brand awareness. A potential ban could have significant consequences for businesses like hers, which rely heavily on these platforms for marketing purposes.
As a journalist covering this issue, I believe it is important for lawmakers to consider the impact of any proposed ban on small businesses before making any decisions. Small businesses contribute significantly to local economies and communities, and they deserve our support during these challenging times.
Overall, it is crucial for us as journalists to continue covering stories like this one that highlight the importance of social media for small businesses and advocate for policies that support them.
