5 Questions to Ask as You Prepare for Small Business Saturday
Small Business Saturday Prep
Small Business Saturday has become not just a holiday to celebrate but an overall mindset of supporting small businesses year-round. As a small business owner, it is more important than ever that you plan how to promote your business this year. As consumers face supply chain issues and long shipping times, it’s imperative that local small businesses be ready to offer an alternative. You’ll want to have both online and offline strategies in place. Here’s a summary of questions to help guide your efforts.
Is Your Online Presence Ready?
First things first. Make sure all your info is up to date on your website, social media, Google listings, etc. Address, phone number, website address, and hours should all be accurate. Review your site as if you were a customer. Is the navigation user-friendly? Place a test order to make sure online ordering is functioning properly. Having an online store set up is essential for capturing more sales. You may also want to offer preorders and curbside pickup for added convenience.
How Can You Add Value?
Adding value can be discount-oriented, but it doesn’t have to be. Choose what specials make sense for your business. That could be offering a free $10 gift card with a $50 purchase. Selling gift cards helps you generate money now and encourages shoppers to return and spend more at a later date. Another way you can add value is by expanding your hours. Staying open longer can bring in new customers.
Who Can You Align With?
Who are the other local businesses in your area? From restaurants to ice cream shops, hair salons, or retail stores, connect and find ways to support one another. One way is to create a map for shoppers that shows where businesses are located and promotes what specials they are offering. Also, on social media, be sure to like the pages of local businesses and share their posts with your followers. You’ll want them to do the same for you.
What Cleaning Measures Do You Have in Place?
Prepare your surfaces, equipment, and displays with a full cleaning. From custom window cleaners to stainless steel cleaner & polish, you can make a strong first impression with a clean and welcoming environment. (Browse Gold Medal's full line of cleaning supplies.) Also, don't forget to clean your kettle to keep your popper working effectively and efficiently.
How Will You Get the Word Out?
Build anticipation by starting your marketing a few weeks in advance. Send out emails weekly promoting flavors or specials you will be offering. Start a countdown on social media and use hashtags like #ShopSmall. Make a save-the-date postcard that you can mail and hand out at your checkout. Post signage and even make a special display at your shop centered around Small Business Saturday. For more marketing ideas see our post, 8 Popcorn Shop Marketing Ideas that Work.
Once you’re ready for Small Business Saturday, don’t stop there! Work hard to keep these areas in mind on other special occasions and throughout the year. And to maximize your holiday sales, don’t miss the sales-boosting treats in our 7 Brilliant Holiday Flavors post.