December 3rd is Small Business Saturday, a day when all SMEs unite to celebrate small business and the value they bring both locally and nationally.
But what exactly is it, you may ask? Well, it’s a grassroots, non-commercial campaign that originated in the US and has been prevalent in the UK for the last three years. It highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities.
The day-long event itself takes place on the first Saturday in December each year, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses. This year, Small Business Saturday will take place on December 3rd.
The initiative is something that has been backed by a lot of high profile companies and people like Clear Channel, American Express, Indeed, Post Office and even ex-Prime Minister, David Cameron over the years.
Although positioned as the ‘Black Friday’ for British independents, small businesses of all types can participate and tailor it to their market niche. Whether you’re a retailer or a restaurateur you can make Small Business Saturday work for you.
Ensuring customers choose you and your business over the big High Street brands is crucial to the day’s success. And with that comes a degree of investment. No, we’re not talking capital. We’re talking about marketing the day so people, or should we say potential customers, know what you’re doing and offering. Thankfully in today’s digital age it doesn’t cost hundreds of pounds to promote an event, we’ve got some top tips on how to promote your business online this week:
Tweet your followers
To tell them the 3 Ws: What’s happening? Where it’s happening? When it’s happening?
Create a buzz
Maybe offer an incentive for people to come to you. Perhaps a discount, free sweets/drinks, that sort of thing.
Share pictures of your produce, product or trade on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter
Remembering to use the hashtag #SmallBusinessSaturday and include your location so people can check in too.
Tell us what you’re doing this Saturday by tweeting us @kinexuk using #SmallBusinessSaturday