I don't need to tell you that times are tough. Businesses have closed down, some for good, and more may be headed that way. For a lot of companies, this is an incredibly trying time in which profits will sink, and hard decisions need to be made. So what can your business do, what tools can you utilize to keep people coming to your business? Let's break down a few options.
The fact that social media is free is a miracle for small businesses. In this time of closings and re-openings, of rules and regulations being dispersed whilst everyone is at home, communication is incredibly essential. People are often missing major updates and announcements regarding the regulations the pandemic has forced us to put in place, so the first thing social media can do for you is act as a direct line of communication to your loyal customers. Letting your customers simply know that you're open can be a big factor in increasing traffic to your business.
If you're a restaurant, letting people know that your food can be ordered for delivery, takeout, or through a third-party food delivery service like Doordash or Postmates can be a big help in keeping your doors open. Other businesses can use social media for advertising sales, free delivery deals, gift cards, or showing off your safety practices so customers can feel comfortable coming into your storefront. These are just the free options; however, paid social media marketing campaigns can help as well. Social media is a massive benefit to businesses during the pandemic, and their importance cannot be overstated.
While times are tough and many people prefer to stay home, businesses can still be supported; in fact, both popular outlets and politicians are encouraging this support. The Washington Post, Forbes, and USA Today are all encouraging people to continue to support businesses by buying gift cards, and the idea is sound. While customers might not be able to use the gift card at this moment, gift cards will come in handy when all of this finally blows over; in the meantime, every dollar counts in keeping your business afloat.
Inform your customers that gift cards are available through promotional emails, social media, or an online storefront, and the money that you make can help you survive this difficult time. For all of your customers, this means they get to help keep one of their favorite businesses around. Offering gift cards at this time, especially around holidays, can help bolster your numbers in these trying times.
It's working for other businesses out there. The Washington Post article discusses Steve McHugh, owner of the restaurant Cured in San Antonio, who says, "Gift cards are like interest-free loans. We've actually sold a lot this week, and I've been surprised that people are buying them."
Stocking up on gift cards is a great option for your business and your customers too. Without a cash flow coming through your business day by day, all you can do is offer an alternative. Gift cards are that alternative, and customers see that, especially with so many outlets saying so. Customers will want to help support you, and gift cards are a strong investment in this time of trial.
Ready to stock up on gift cards? The team at Plastic Printers have all of your printed marketing needs covered. From gift cards and promo cards to signage, ID badges, membership cards, key tags, and more, we are ready to help!