Small Business Saturday is fast approaching and there is no question this will be the most important one to date. Many small businesses have struggled this year through the pandemic, and the holiday shopping weekend represents a great opportunity to make up some of the lost revenue. Here we take a look at how your company can best navigate Small Business Saturday.
Everyone Should Participate
“The land of opportunity and entrepreneurs, 99.7% of all businesses in the U.S. are small businesses. When we think small businesses, our minds might automatically wander to the mom-and-pop shop on the corner of the block, but what about the ever-famous-ever-growing Silicon Valley? A large amount of small businesses within the United States are startups and tech-based, popping up in California, New York, and everywhere in between.”
Offer Multiple Payment Options
“For most companies, meeting sales projections is a big deal. And if COVID-19 impacted your sales, you might be looking for ways to boost it before year end. Small Business Saturday can help your small company ramp up sales. Because it is a prime shopping day, customers might be apt to spend more. To optimize sales, consider expanding the types of payments you accept. You may begin accepting credit card payments as well as mobile payments to avoid missing out on sales. Many consumers shop exclusively with credit cards or with a mobile wallet, and failing to accept these payment methods could cost your business.”
Prioritize Customer Service
“Re-train your staff to make a good impression. Your ability to connect with customers and create more personalized experiences can help you stand out amongst competitors. According to a 2016 study, although people continue to shop online -- nothing beats an in-store experience, so make sure yours is one to remember. Run through scenarios that might occur at your store during a busy weekend and give your staff the tools they need and the words to say to solve problems and help customers who might not have visited your store in a while.”
Prepare For Increased Foot Traffic
“Make sure you take time to get your store ready to accommodate increased foot traffic on Small Business Saturday. Get your Shop Small signage up and ready, and consider offering some special in-store shopper perks like coffee, snacks, and coupons during the day. If you are successful at creating a customer-friendly environment, you will get more customers through the door, and hopefully more sales.”
Market Early And Often
“Get the word out early by communicating often with customers and your community through Facebook, Twitter, email newsletters, on your website and in person at your store. Your most loyal customers can become your biggest advocates and help spread the word to new customers in your community. Connect your business with the cause of local community support – not just support of your local business. Emphasize the fact that supporting your business and other local businesses is an investment in your community. Visit Small Business Saturday on Facebook for free access to marketing and promotional tools like in-store signage, e-marketing materials and other special offers/incentives.”
Download our Free eBook to learn how to maximize your holiday shopping weekend profits!
