Back in 2010 (when we were watching Mad Men, season four) Small Business Saturday (SBS) was launched by American Express. The day is dedicated to supporting our nation’s small, independently-owned businesses.
It’s popular, too. According to Fundera.com, the movement garnered 112 million customers and $15.4B in spending at small businesses on Small Business Saturday in 2016. In 2019, it falls on November 30!
So, how can you make this national holiday work for your business? Our marketing team brainstormed some ideas…
1| Spread the Word
Small Business Saturday thrives on word-of-mouth and exposure in-store and online, both on websites and social media. Post signage at your location, give your mobile teams handouts, and make sure to share information about the holiday on your social media channels.
BONUS: A few social media amplification ideas:
Share high-quality graphics: If you don’t have in-house design capabilities, consider customizing American Express’s free designs or giving us a call!
Create a hashtag: This will keep all posts that use your hashtag in one place and help your followers keep tabs on your SBS story as it unfolds.
Connect with local influencers: Find a social media influencer with a dedicated follower base in your area. Empower them share info about your business on their social media channels.
Consider paid social media marketing: A little bit of paid $$ goes a very long way on social media!
2| Plan an Event
Now that you’re getting the word out via multiple channels, it’s time to think about an event to help get customers in.
Let’s say you own a bookstore. Consider partnering with a local, independently-owned brewery for a “Small Batch Brews + Books” SBS event. Offer up beer + book pairings for different kinds of customers, such as Sci-Fi + Saison or Politics + Porter. Have fun with it—and make sure to amplify on your social media channels.
3| Offer Incentives
Nothing gets customers in the door like freebies. Consider special BOGO deals or complimentary items, free refreshments and/or snacks, an in-person contest, a photo booth, a holiday gift guide with exclusive coupons… the list goes on!
4| Stock Up Ahead of Time
Believe in your Small Business Saturday marketing efforts… they will WORK and bring you more business! Make sure you have extra employees on-staff, that your website is mobile-friendly and has a fast load speed, and that you have all the product you need on-hand.
GOOD LUCK ON SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY!
We’re so excited to see what you achieve this coming Small Business Saturday. If you’re hunting for a small business marketing partner who understands that you have big goals and a pragmatic budget, Madison Marketing Hound is … your Lobster. (We’re the one for you, basically.)
