As we watch the coronavirus sweep across the globe, small businesses everywhere are taking a financial blow. This virus is impacting our own cities, but one thing we also are seeing is support from community members. People still want to support local businesses. You may be accustomed to people visiting your actual business, but in the name of social distancing, and shelter-at-home orders, foot traffic is a thing of the past, for now. Our small business coach at Bryant Consultants wants to share with you some tips on how customers can support you during the coronavirus pandemic.
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Let customers know how you are keeping them and your employees safe
If you are an essential business, customers still are visiting you, and they want to know how you are keeping them and your employees safe. You can draft an email to send them, making them aware of the changes to your hours, and how your business is following CDC recommendations for cleaning and disinfecting. We also recommend posting a notice in your business so that people can see it when they enter.
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Offer customers something special
People are still going to essential businesses, and offering customers a special offer lets them know that you care. Some ideas may be “buy one get one free,” a discount on future services, or a multi purchase discount where the customer pays less for each service or product when they purchase more of them all at once. An example of a multi purchase discount could be a specific service that costs $99 is discounted to $75 when three or more are purchased. Another option is to have a flash sale or special promotion on popular products or services.
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Offer curbside pick up or delivery
This is where you can get creative. We have heard reports of salons offering pre-mixed hair color that can be picked up curbside, and of course, there is curbside food pickup. If your small business sells good, consider making it an option for customers to purchase online and then pick up their product curbside. Even if your particular business is not able to offer its services curbside or delivery, consider paying your employees to run errands and provide these options to your customers. For instance, an electrical company whose business has slowed might offer grocery delivery services to its customers.
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Offer in-home services, if available
If you are able, offer in-home services because people are staying home, and some don’t even want to get out for curbside pickup. Since the government has encouraged social distancing and group gatherings of fewer than 10 people, an in-home service abides by these rules. This is also an opportunity for your customers to see how your company is practicing safety protocols.
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Offer free shipping
If your business sells products, consider offering free shipping at this time. Free shipping is seen as an incentive to purchase. Even if you don’t have an online shop, take pictures of your products and post them on social media, and let customers know that they can call your store directly to make a purchase.
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Encourage the purchase of gift cards
A lot of people may not feel comfortable going out right now, even if it is for essential business. But, offer your customers a gift card option and let them know how their purchase helps you pay rent and your employee’s payroll. Once this whole thing blows over, they can come inside to shop or receive your services again. Professional website designers at Bryant Consultants can add a gift card purchasing option to your website.
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Use social media to stay connected with customers
Facebook and Instagram can be used to communicate with customers. You can use these platforms to let customers know about your special promotions, operating hours, how you are providing a safe and clean work environment for your employees, and any other special offers that are available during this time. You also could post videos discussing new products, or “how-to” videos. If you aren’t sure how to use platforms, considering a consultation with a social media manager for small businesses.
For more information on how to keep your business thriving during the coronavirus pandemic, please call Bryant Consultants at (877) 768-4799. We provide consultation, training, and coaching to help improve the operations of your business so that you can provide exceptional service to your patients. We encourage you to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to receive immediate updates regarding coronavirus pandemic.
