I don’t need to tell you that this year is…well…different. We’re living different and definitely shopping different. That might scare a lot of our small businesses, but it doesn’t necessarily have to. I’ve recently compiled SEVERAL ideas that are working all across the country to help keep the doors open and the customers coming in (even if it’s virtually.)
A great place to start is to ask yourself what would make my Mom (Grandmother, Aunt, Uncle, Little Brother…) more comfortable about shopping local? What would keep them from clicking that mouse at an online, national chain from big town USA.
- Offer curbside pickup. Even if you ask everyone to wear a mask, some people are just too scared (or vulnerable) to want to get out of their comfort zone and walk into your store or restaurant. It’s a little bit of trouble, but it just might be the difference between making a sale (or several) and not doing so.
- Offer shipping options. Find out how much it will cost you to ship some popular items…or choose flat rate shipping from USPS. Then offer to ship items that you post on your social media pages. Make sure you figure out when you have to cut off sales to have items arrive by Christmas Eve.
- Do sales on Facebook Live. Sounds intimidating, I know, but you can do it! Just got in a new shipment of sweaters, vases, candles, coffee…go live on Facebook and tell people to comment exactly what they want along with the email address for their PayPal account. It’s fast, easy and almost everyone has a PayPal account. If not, tell them to call and then you can take a card over the phone. Or they can Venmo you, if you have an account. Lots of ways to go on this one. Facebook Live truly does generate more views than a regular post.
- Delivery. Could you do porch dropoff or delivery within an X-mile radius of your store? This is easier for boutiques than for restaurants. If it’s not perishable, you can leave on the porch even if the person isn’t at home. Get a cell phone number so that you can take a picture and text them where it is after you leave it.
- Takeout. Takeout. Takeout. If you’re a restaurant that isn’t doing takeout, please start now. Lots of people want to eat out, but many didn’t like eating in even before COVID. They want to grab something after work, go home and put on their sweats and fuzzy slippers. Don’t miss out on this crowd.
- Finally, do everything to make them feel safe and welcome. Make sure your customers know that you’re constantly cleaning and disinfecting. They want to know that you care about their safety. (If you’ve taken the Tennessee Pledge and need a poster, let the Chamber know.) If you want customers to wear masks, put a sign on the door…and be sure if you want them to wear theirs that you’re wearing yours correctly, as well.
The Chamber is working hard encouraging everyone to shop local, but it may take a few extra steps on your part this year. If you need help or more ideas…give us a call at 784-1842 or email amanda@humboldtchamber.com.
Amanda Love
Executive Director
Humboldt Chamber
