With Small Business Saturday coming up, it’s a great opportunity to think of creative ways to promote your business. While discounts are effective, there are numerous other strategies small businesses can use to showcase their products and services on this special day. Here are fifteen unique ideas:
**1. Launch a Social Media Campaign**
Start promoting on social media a few days in advance. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook are perfect for spreading the word about your sales, events, or special offers, helping you attract last-minute shoppers.
**2. Support Local Causes**
Consumers enjoy supporting local businesses because their spending benefits the local economy rather than large corporations. Enhance this local appeal by supporting local charities or causes during your promotion. You could donate a portion of your proceeds or invite members of a local group to share information about their cause at your store.
**3. Cross-Promote with Other Local Businesses**
If you’re near other small businesses, consider partnering with them to broaden your reach. You can display signage promoting nearby stores or restaurants, create a collaborative gift guide, or host a series of complementary events or promotions.
**4. Offer In-Store Entertainment**
Make shopping on Small Business Saturday a fun experience. Offering live music or other entertainment can attract more customers to your store and encourage them to stay longer.
**5. Provide Refreshments**
Enhance the customer experience by offering refreshments like coffee, hot chocolate, or cookies. This small gesture can encourage customers to linger and shop more.
**6. Create a Unique Hashtag**
Use existing Small Business Saturday hashtags to promote your sales or events, but also consider creating your own hashtag. This can encourage customers to share their experiences online and help you track what people are saying about your business.
**7. Host a Contest or Giveaway**
Increase online engagement by hosting a contest or giveaway. For example, ask customers to post a photo of their purchase or experience at your store on Instagram or Facebook. Offer a free gift or discount to the person with the most creative photo.
**8. Collect Email Addresses**
Host an in-person giveaway by asking customers to sign up for your email list. Choose a winner from the list and notify them of their prize, while also using the opportunity to send relevant deals or offers to everyone who signed up.
**9. Offer Photo Opportunities**
Encourage customers to share their visits online by providing photo opportunities, like a photo booth or appearances by Santa or other characters. These fun interactions can lead to more social media posts about your business.
**10. Create a Gift Guide**
For businesses selling holiday gift items, creating a gift guide can be very effective. Include your products in a blog post, email newsletter, or direct mail, offering shoppers ideas on how to use them during the holiday season.
**11. Reach Out to Local Media**
Expand your reach by contacting local media or online publications. Suggest including your products in their gift guides or promote your sales and events through their platforms.
**12. Invite Influencers to Shop**
Influencers can help you connect with potential customers, especially if you have an online store. Have them use or test your products and share their experiences with their followers.
**13. Offer Free Gifts or Wrapping**
Consider offering free gift wrapping services or small gifts for shoppers. This extra touch can enhance their shopping experience and encourage repeat visits.
**14. Share a Behind-the-Scenes Video**
Remind customers that their purchases support real people in the community. Create a behind-the-scenes video or photo series showcasing your team at work to foster a personal connection.
**15. Live Stream Throughout the Day**
Give people an inside look at your business by live streaming parts of your day. Platforms like Periscope and Facebook Live allow you to share real-time updates and showcase the exciting happenings at your store.
Implementing these ideas can help you make the most of Small Business Saturday, attract more customers, and create a memorable shopping experience.
