As consumer spending habits change, many small businesses are working hard to respond to this expected uptick in sales. And for those with brick-and-mortar locations, efforts to revive foot traffic have become even more critical.
On that note, a recent article in Forbes discusses ways that smaller businesses can bring more visits to their physical locations. It was written by Rhett Power, an author and business coach, and he had some practical advice that any business owner can employ.
Power divides his suggestions into five categories. They all have a tie to the online world as well, as both are going to be important to ensure a full economic recovery.
Make it personal
This one definitely seems like a common-sense move, as small businesses are uniquely positioned to foster stronger relationships with customers. Going beyond just targeting a persona and making outreach a priority will help strengthen rapport. In a way, you are not just selling products but also values, and better communication is a way to solidify that.
It’s OK to be authentic
This is a variation on the idea above. Using a personal approach — one that ties in to how you approach life in general — can go a long way to bringing customers back to an in-store experience. This is another way you can glean feedback from customers, asking them how they enjoyed their in-store experience, or what can be improved, in order to make sure it’s wholly your own.
Pick your solutions wisely
Finding the balance between digital and in-person marketing methods can be tricky. And yet, there are ways to do just that. For instance, you might consider a pop-up store at an event as a novelty to drive interest (and hopefully on-site sales).
Invest in your environment
Here’s another common-sense one, but with a twist. Now is the time to take into account all of the sensory experience that form an in-store experience. Investing in new or higher-end decor, flowers and music can go a long way in creating the ideal encounter. It’s also important to integrate outdoor aspects — if possible— as masks indoors will still play a part of the recovery from the coronavirus.
Going mobile is still key
Digital marketing is great entry point for a visit to the store. To that end, having a robust video marketing strategy that tout your store’s niche can be effective in this area. Too, having offers that are strictly mobile-based can also lead to positive results.
Taking into account the inevitable desire people have for more interaction is going to be important for small businesses to continue to cement progress. On that note, we’d love to help you in this time of transition. Visit our website for more details.