Celebrated two days after Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday is a way for consumers to usher in the busy holiday shopping season and make an impact in their community by supporting independently owned businesses.
This year, Small Business Saturday will be held on November 27 so now is the time for small businesses to prepare for the big day.
Why is Small Business Saturday important?
Small businesses have long been considered the backbone and heart of the American economy. Successful small businesses bring a community together, increase real estate value and help keep local money local – which directly benefits their towns’ economies. Small businesses pay local taxes, which means any money spent there flows back to their communities, supporting things like parks, schools and emergency services.
Small Business Saturday is also a great chance for small business owners to rake in some last-minute profits before the year’s end.
Here are a few tips to help you get your business ready:
- Show what sets you apart. As a small business, it’s tough to compete with big box stores. In your marketing efforts, make sure customers know what makes your small business special. This can be a unique product or service or simply creating an inviting space for shoppers. Whatever that may be, communicate it to customers.
- Reinvest in social media. Promote Small Business Saturday deals and share how you’re preparing your store. Use #ShopSmall, #ShopLocal on your social media posts to join the overall conversation. Encourage shoppers to snap a selfie and tag your business. This can increase engagement of your posts, potentially reaching new customers. But
- Boost your other marketing strategies. In addition to your social media marketing, take the time to rethink your overall marketing strategy and increase your advertising efforts. With Black Friday marking the official start of the holiday shopping season, now is a good time to beef up your marketing strategy and make sure it maximizes your chances of success.
- Plan an event. Organize a Small Business Saturday kickoff with food, drinks, and promotional items to draw shoppers in. Consider special discounts or free offerings for loyal customers. Set up an in-store activity that demonstrates your products or services.
- Partner up. Contact other small businesses in your area and see how you can team up to provide special offers. Consider highlighting a local charity at your business. It’s a great way to embrace the spirit of the season and give back.
- Leverage local events. Identify other holiday events and determine how your business can participate. This could lead to repeat customers and help you become a bigger part of the community.
- Promote gift cards. Many holiday shoppers buy gift cards or gift certificates for family and friends, representing a huge opportunity for your small business.
- Offer special discounts and promotions. Like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday is a great day to offer special deals to entice customers.
- Stay open longer. Small Business Saturday will most likely be your busiest day of the year. Extending your hours by opening earlier and closing later could have a big impact on sales.
- Stock up on potentially popular items. The last thing you’ll want is to run out of your most popular merchandise before the season even begins. That’s why it’s critical to understand your product or service demands during the holiday season
- Personalize your customer experience. Your company isn’t the only one on the market on Small Business Saturday. To earn the support of your audience and keep up with your competitors (including larger corporations, which tend to be more convenient options for many shoppers), you’ll have to find ways to personalize your customers’ experience.
Click here for a free flyer to market Small Business Saturday