The pandemic has undoubtedly brought hard times for small businesses throughout the world, both socially and economically. Companies are currently struggling with budget cuts and finding other ways to market and deliver their products. Whether it’s from requirements to close their doors or their customers returning with damaged bank accounts from their job losses. 76% of small businesses have sadly reported being negatively affected.
Even if times are currently tough for your business as well, you can still support your fellow small businesses in ways that won’t cost a penny and still support the heart of local economies. They may return the favor and help you as well.
1. Promote small businesses on your personal and business social media.
A social shoutout is the simplest, fastest, and cheapest way to show support. Even the smallest, newest businesses often have a Facebook and/or Instagram page. Whether you have 300 or 30,000 followers, sharing the current Black Friday sale or your favorite products on your stories will give them more exposure to your audience, some of whom may share it among their followers.
Draw their attention with a few colorful, animated stickers and an enthusiastic message showing how much you recommend the business.
Budget losses often mean fewer resources for marketing and advertising, so some word-of-mouth can help compensate for some of the losses.
2. Buy gift cards for others.
If any small businesses you know offer gift cards, gift them to your employees as a year-end bonus to express your gratitude for their service. Since it’s possible that the recipient isn’t aware of what the business is, include a note introducing the business, why you chose them over a big-name brand, and some encouragement to continue shopping local and small. This gives them several new options for their own gifting they may not have considered.
3. Collaborate with another business.
If you don’t have enough time to launch a collaboration with another business by November 28, you can start figuring out other opportunities. Businesses can collaborate by hosting a pop-up from another business in their physical storefront. This is ideal for a business typically relying on e-commerce rather than a brick-and-mortar.
If you’re the one with the brick-and-mortar and your doors are allowed to be open, reach out to e-commerce-based brands with an audience that could use your offerings. Advertising a collaboration is guaranteed to increase exposure for both you and your partner, as you’ll be promoting each other on your marketing materials.
4. Check Etsy and local shops for essentials.
Necessities like masks, soap, and hand sanitizers aren’t only found at Target and Costco. Many small businesses have also been producing masks and sanitizers with their own unique branding. It’s not unusual for local handmade shops to feature some distinctive designs and scents. Try checking your local gift shop or Etsy for handmade sanitizer, soap, or masks for yourself and your office.
What are your suggestions for 2020-friendly ways to support small businesses? Let us know in the comments below so we can all play our part in keeping small businesses afloat!
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About Stingray Advisory Group LLC: Stingray Advisory Group LLC is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan and is a proud member of Local First and the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. We help small businesses grow by providing guidance in financial planning, website development, marketing, and more.
