While Black Friday has been around since the 1970’s, Small Business Saturday is just taking root. Wedged in between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, it’s roots took shape in 2010 when American Express encouraged consumers to shop local to keep money local. Sixty-eight dollars for every $100 spent stays in the community when you shop local. In contrast, only $43 for every $100 spent at big box stores will stay in the community.
Small Business Saturday is slated for November 24 this year. Are you ready to take advantage of Small Businesses Saturday? Here are some tips:
First, you’ll want to figure out your goals for Small Business Saturday, who you are marketing to, and what deals you are going to offer.
It’s then time to figure out your message and create a marketing campaign. Once you get the details down, its time to get to business.
Announce you’ll be participating. This means letting your customers know via newsletter, social media, flyers or even through advertising.
Advertise! Make sure the community knows that you are participating in Small Business Saturday by offering specials and deals. Shoppers won’t come unless there’s a reason to. Think newspaper and radio ads to let consumers know that you’ll be participating.
Use social media to let people know you’ll be participating, and what kind of deals you’ll be offering. It’s a great idea to have an ad or flyer made that you can use on Facebook to let people know.
Banners in front of your establishment will catch the attention of shoppers who didn’t may have not caught your advertising efforts in papers, radio or social media.
And remember, you don’t have to be a retail shop to take advantage of Small Business Saturday. Anyone offering a service can take advantage of Small Business Saturday, including restaurants, banks, and salons. Even organizations can get in on the fun by offering discounts for membership or events.
