The holiday season is in full swing, and as a business owner, it’s time to gear up for increased customer traffic and boost those Q4 sales. To help you make the most of this festive period, we’re sharing some ideas to make your business stand out from the crowd and draw in customers through the end of the year.
- Enhance Your Google Business Profile with a Small Business Tag: Make your business stand out on Google by adding a “Small Business” tag to your profile. It’s a simple yet effective way to attract customers eager to support small businesses during the holiday season.
- Keep Your Information Up to Date: Ensure that all your business details, including contact information, address, and operating hours, are current. Potential customers rely heavily on accurate information, especially during the holiday rush. This will help you provide a seamless experience for those looking to find and visit your store.
- Craft Unique Holiday Promotions: Stand out by offering enticing holiday promotions. Consider implementing Buy One, Get One (BOGO) deals, gift card promotions, and bundled offers. These promotions not only attract customers but also encourage larger purchases.
- Provide Gift-Wrapping Services: If applicable to your business, consider offering gift-wrapping services. Many shoppers appreciate the convenience of having their purchases wrapped in tissue paper or a festive bag, saving them time and effort. This extra touch can make a significant difference in customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Embrace Mobile-Friendly Marketing: With the increasing reliance on smartphones, it’s crucial to optimize your marketing strategies for mobile users. Leverage social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok for targeted advertising. Implement email campaigns with mobile-friendly layouts, and make sure your website is optimized for seamless online shopping experiences on desktop and mobile devices.
- Utilize Instagram & TikTok Shop for Direct Purchases: These platforms allow customers to make direct purchases from your business without leaving the app. By making your products easily accessible through these popular social media channels, you can tap into a broader audience and drive sales.
As you prepare for the festive season, remember that these tips are not one-size-fits-all. Tailor them to fit the unique needs and offerings of your business. With the right approach, you can create a memorable and enjoyable shopping experience for your customers while maximizing your holiday sales. Happy selling!
Click to watch and learn more about the incredible small businesses that are focusing on providing an impact, making a difference in their communities, and the journey up.
Hell Bent Brewing, located in two Washington locations, has won awards for its beer; offering IPAs, pilsners, ambers, and more, it’s easy to find a brew to delight your tastebuds.
Morris Kitchen is a company that sells delicious cocktail mixers crafted with high-quality, all-natural ingredients. They also offer recipes on their website, so you can make your own delicious cocktail at home.
Coco Reserve has turned coconuts into an art form. They specialize in growing and supplying premium Floridian and coconut products (including custom-branded coconuts) to individuals, businesses, and events.
LOAN PRODUCTS AND EVENTS:
Need a loan, line of credit, or just some personal finance coaching to help your business grow? Check out these products and resources designed for your needs.
Business Term Loan
For small business owners who need money to grow their business, Ascendus offers loans from $500 – $50,000. Qualified businesses will be located nationwide, except Vermont.
CT Small Business Boost Fund
Supported by the Connecticut Department of Economic & Community Development, this fund links Connecticut small businesses and nonprofits to financial support.
Childcare Business Development
Qualified Businesses can be found nationwide, excluding Vermont. If you have been in business for more than three years, you can access up to $25,000 in fast-track financing at the same interest rate within 48 hours. No paperwork is needed to apply.
Rideshare Business Term Loan
Loans up to $15,000 in financing for rideshare businesses are offered at 13.99%.
Business Line of Credit
Access a line of credit up to $25,000 in fast-track financing at a 13.99% interest rate.
New York Forward Loan Fund 2.0
Up to $150,000 with a fixed interest rate for the lifetime of the loan. Eligible to New York small businesses only. Read more:
Entrepreneurs of Color Fund
Loans up to $250,000 at 9.99%. Eligible to small business owners in any state, excluding Vermont. Must be 51% or more owned by an entrepreneur of color.
“Get Ready” Business Line of Credit
No FICO minimum! This line of credit product is designed for African American small business owners ready to improve their credit and invest in their business. $5,000 offered at 13.99%.
Ascendus Credit Coaching
Free tailored credit coaching for all current clients that are interested in our “Get Ready” Loan product. Training sessions will include credit building, debt management tailored to long- and short-term goals, prioritizing debt repayment, budget assessment, and assessment for current credit-building programs.
Microinsurance
$50,000 Term Life and $50,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance offered at no cost to you with your loan. Only available to new clients located in New York City.
Eastern Bank Equity Alliance
We are thrilled to be working with the Equity Alliance for Business, which is designed to advance growth opportunities for underserved business owners and entrepreneurs with specialized banking offerings specifically for underrepresented women, people of color and all of their intersectionality, including LGBTQIA+, veterans and disabled communities. At a recent fireside chat, business and community leaders shared unique perspectives about solutions aimed at shaping a path forward for diverse businesses across the Commonwealth.
Looking for more business resources? Check out our curation of resources designed to help minority-owned businesses flourish.