By Kelly Spors

Small Business Saturday (SBS)— happening November 25th this year — is the annual day that encourages consumers to spend their money at small, locally owned businesses. By offering special promotions or events for the day, businesses have a great opportunity to generate more foot traffic and more revenue.

But with so many businesses clamoring for attention on the same day, how do you get the word out in order to attract customers? 

1. Take advantage of email

If you have an email newsletter or email list, make sure to use it to promote your Small Business Saturday deals and events. You could, for example, write a short teaser about what you’re planning.

Make sure to play up the benefits of visiting your business on Small Business Saturday, such as a one-day-only special deal or discount. Send out a reminder a day or two before SBS, so customers don't forget.

2. Promote through social media

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and other channels can be ideal for getting the word out about your Small Business Saturday promotions.

On Facebook, for example, you can create an event and invite people to attend. Anyone who clicks the button saying they plan to “attend” or is “interested” will then get a reminder alert in the days or hours leading up to Small Business Saturday.

Your Facebook followers can also share or invite other people, helping spread the word even further. Consider spending a little extra money to advertise on Facebook, so that your followers and others in your target market actually see your related posts in their News Feeds.

3. Display signage

If you have a physical store, placing a sign on the sidewalk outside your business can be effective, especially if your business is located in a heavily trafficked area, such as a local downtown business district.

Also consider handing out flyers in the days leading up to SBS.

4. Consider advertising with other businesses

Local newspapers and other publications, radio and even TV may be good places to promote your Small Business Saturday plans.

To reduce the cost of advertising, some small businesses partner with other nearby businesses to collectively advertise their SBS deals and events. This also shows your local audience that they have more than one place to shop locally on that day — and may increase the odds that they actually do. 

Local business organizations, such as your Chamber of Commerce, may also pitch in money or help with advertising if several businesses band together.  

As Small Business Saturday approaches, think about how you can maximize your business impact this year. A big part of that is making sure people know — and remember — that your business will offer them something special.

About the Author

Kelly Spors is a freelance writer and editor based in Minneapolis. She previously worked as a staff reporter for The Wall Street Journal, covering small business and entrepreneurship.

All content provided herein is for educational purposes only. It is provided “as is,” and neither the author nor Office Depot warrants the accuracy of the information provided, nor do they assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.