Small Business Saturday is a great opportunity to promote your local business and attract new customers. The day is dedicated to supporting the local businesses that help create jobs, boost the economy and preserve neighborhoods around the country. Since its inception in 2010, Small Business Saturday has become the biggest sales day of the year for many small businesses as many Americans participate in the campaign to shop at locally-owned independent businesses and restaurants.
Here are a few tips to help your business benefit from the support shoppers show on Small Business Saturday:
Update Your Online Profiles
Don’t forget the small stuff. Make sure your website and social channels are all up to date with your store’s address, contact information and hours. While you’re at it, start spreading the word that your business is taking part in Small Business Saturday by promoting it on your social media channels using the hashtag #ShopSmall. If you’re planning anything special for customers that day, such as refreshments, promotions, discounts or giveaways, make sure to include those details in your social media posts.
Create Customized Marketing Materials
Make your business unique by visiting
Shop Small Studio where you can find customizable templates for social media, websites, posters, and more to let customers know you’re participating in this year’s event. This is a great way to stand out and drive traffic to your website and store.
Plan to Create Deals and Promotions
Give customers an incentive to come visit your store. Meet with your team to discuss different promotions you can offer shoppers, for example hosting a raffle for customers to win prize money or merchandise. This way, you can have shoppers complete a form to collect their contact information for future events and promotions.
Invite a Local Official or Celebrity
In 2015, Barack Obama visited a local bookstore on Small Business Saturday! Although you may not be able to get a past president to show up at your shop, think about inviting a known local official, such as the mayor, to your store for the day. This makes for great photo opportunities and can help generate media buzz surrounding your business.
Show Your Support
Small Business Saturday is a community celebration so go out and visit other small businesses in the area who are participating. Take pictures and share social content — it’s a great way to show customers you are a supporter of your fellow local businesses.
Lakeland Bank offers a full range of business banking services to support independently owned businesses, including online services, business loans, and cash management solutions. Our Customer Service Team can be reached at 866-224-1379.