How to Prepare for American Express’ Small Business Saturday

This year Small Business Saturday will take place on November 28. And just like every year, shoppers from all over the country are encouraged to shop in local businesses and thus help bring money into the local area. Here are our top 3 tips on how to prepare for the weekend, both online and offline (and we encourage you to start now before the date creeps up on us):

Have a locally optimized website
In an age when an increasingly large numbers of customers use a mobile device for web browsing, social media, and shopping, having a mobile friendly website is a crucial step toward success. Your website should use responsive design or at least have an individual mobile version. Customers appreciate fast loading times and a well-thought-out user experience.
Many retailers who start selling their merchandise online forget about the local market. Your online website doesn’t necessarily have to be aimed at the widest possible audience. Smaller stores and businesses often greatly benefit from narrowing their focus and marketing locally. Search engines pay attention to location and so do buyers. Local search optimization is the best way how to capture the interest of customers close to you. It just so happens that these customers are often very loyal and supportive.

Don’t forget about social media
Social media networks are the best way how to promote special offers and create a large following of enthusiastic supporters and potential customers. Use Twitter hashtag #SmallBusinessSaturday to become a part of established movement of small businesses owners. This will bring you many opportunities for networking with like-minded owners of brick and mortar shops and give you a good idea about what customers like and dislike.
Creating your own special social media promotions is always a great idea. Get creative and think of something that will inspire people to engage their families, friends, and all people around them. Offering prizes and discounts in exchange for imaginative product pictures is a proven strategy how to achieve viral results. Plan ahead and make a roadmap that will lead up to Small Business Saturday and keep your followers engaged and anxious until the very last minute.

Wow your customers with decorations and promotions
Capturing customers on the web and creating social media following is just one part of the “sale” equation. Another part is making your store look amazing in order to convert visitors into buying customers. Special decorations are a fantastic way how to get customers into the right mood and in-store events and promotions are guaranteed to seal the deal. Think about what your customers like and try to create something they would appreciate.

Many small business owners like to manage everything by themselves. However, in many cases wearing so many hats at the same time can lead to burnout and ultimately loss of precious clients. That is where help from skilled professionals becomes essential for keeping a good momentum going and engaging as many customers as possible. We understand the needs of small business owners and have the expertise to provide you with custom solutions that work. Let us help you develop a stunning responsive website and manage your online marketing by contacting us at sales@gotechark.com or filling out our contact form at https://gotechark.com/contact-us/