As an entrepreneur, you pour your heart and soul into your business. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, you might be worried about the future. Many states have mandated that “non-essential” businesses close as part of our societal efforts to “flatten the curve” through social distancing. No matter what industry you’re in, you probably need to re-evaluate your business model, and get creative on ways to maintain cash flow. Bryant Consultants wants to show you how a gift card program could help—not just by stabilizing your current situation, but increasing your potential future sales once normal business resumes.
A gift card program can be right for any business
You might think gift cards only work for restaurants and retail businesses. In reality, any business, regardless of the industry, could benefit from a gift card (or certificate) program. Dentists can offer discounts on certain services that may not be offered right now, such as cleanings and cosmetic procedures, to patients who make a down payment on these treatments now. Professional services—such as lawn care, pest control, and even plastic surgeons—also could set up their own gift certificate programs. You may consider offering an incentive, such as purchasing a particular service as a gift certificate and receive a discount or a complimentary service or item once the certificate is redeemed. For instance, a dentist could offer gift certificates for professional teeth whitening, along with a complimentary smile makeover consultation at the time that the patient redeems their certificate. Bryant Consultants has many ideas on how a gift card program could work for your business. If you would like to learn more, please contact us directly so that we can get to know your business needs and develop the best program for you.
Why choose a gift program?
- Immediate revenue – By offering gift cards or gift certificates, even for products and services that you’re unable to provide immediately, you’re getting cash upfront to help cover your operating expenses and payroll.
- Community support – There’s a big drive in most areas to support small businesses just like yours during this time, while also maintaining social distancing. In fact, MarketWatch recently identified gift cards as the best way for people to support their local small businesses during the pandemic.
- No extra overhead – You can take advantage of digital technology and offer virtual gift cards, such as through PayPal or Venmo. Ask your website designers to add this feature to your website. Facebook is currently offering a way for you to promote your gift options online if you set up your program through one of their affiliated partners. And remember, any of these gift cards and gift certificates are for products and services you already are providing in the first place.
How should I promote this gift program?
Right now, with most people staying at home, promoting your gift cards and gift certificates online is the way to go. This starts with your business website and social media, which should continue to be the central hub for everything related to your company. If you need a website or need to revamp your current site design, Bryant Consultants offers professional web design services for small businesses and dental practices.
These are challenging times for the entire business world. At Bryant Consultants, we believe we’re all in this together, and we’re here to help. We continue to provide consultation, training, and coaching services throughout this crisis and will continue to post relevant updates regarding the coronavirus pandemic. To speak with Bryant Consultants, please call (877) 768-4799, and be sure to ask about our complimentary one-hour consultation. To ensure that you receive the latest updates, please follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
