Shopping. Something we all (well, most of us) love to do. As a consumer, I relish supporting small businesses and #shoppingsmall. Wondering how to get more customers in your community involved in Small Business Saturday? Here are some ways your business can involve customers this Saturday and into the upcoming shopping season.
        Recently, I had a Q & A session with founder of Retail Minded, Nicole Leinbach Reyhle to answer all the who, what, when, where, why, and how’s of Small Business Saturday.
Reyhle began her business, Retail Minded, in 2007, and now she assists 1000’s of retail businesses around the world. Whether it’s marketing, merchandise retail inventory, webinars, workshops, or anything in between, Retail Minded is there to help. She aims her professional experience toward the support of a small business audience.
One way she works with small businesses is by being a proud supporter and endorsee of Small Business Saturday.
        Who should join the Small Business Saturday movement?
        Everyone operating a small business should participate. It’s a nationwide effort to celebrate small businesses working hard all year ‘round.
What and when is Small Business Saturday?
This year’s Small Business Saturday is taking place this coming Saturday, November 26, to boosts local economies, while also bringing consumers and small business owners together. Small businesses have access to digital materials, such as social media posts/photos, website templates, storefront posters, save the dates, and many more ideas and inspiration to get involved with the shopping day. They will also able to utilize the shop small studio and marketing efforts provided by American Express.
Where can people find businesses participating in Small Business Saturday?
Businesses partaking will be featured on a special Small Business Saturday map to show customers those joining in the effort. Find that map to shop your local shops here: https://shopsmallnow.americanexpress.com/shopsmall#/city-guides.
Why should my small business join the movement?
It’s a time to communicate and come together to rally for small business. The customer support is continually increasing every year, and many businesses have found their sales to increase year-after-year.
How can my small business be involved and promote shopping small year ‘round?
        Some ideas to try with your small business include using a stamp that thanks customers for shopping small on their receipt or product. In addition, you can promote this idea is by training your staff to thank the customers for shopping small. These concepts can always be included in your year ‘round marketing and social media.
Another aspect to remember in small business is that shopping is social. Do special things to show your customers your appreciation of their business. Bring in a band, have special treats, or simply get out and talk with your customers during their shopping experience. Go above and beyond the ordinary to celebrate your small business.
Where will you be celebrating small businesses at this Saturday and #shoppingsmall?
To learn more tips and advice for small businesses from Nicole, attend the Center for Rural Enterprise Engagement’s New-Media Marketing Bootcamp on February 8-9, 2017. Event will be held at the DoubleTree Hotel in Overland Park, Kansas. Visit https://ruralengagement.org/bootcamp/ for more information and to register now!
