When you think about Black Friday, you might be picturing long lines outside of your local Best Buy. Or hearing next-day gossip about fights that ensued at the Walmart over a waffle maker. But, Black Friday isn’t just for big-box retailers or eCommerce giants — your small business can also use this holiday to its advantage.
According to the NRF (National Retail Federation), in 2021, 66.5 million people shopped in-store on Black Friday and 88 million online. Not only does the day increase traffic leading to more small business sales, but many consumers prefer to “shop small.”
To help you capitalize on this increased engagement, we’ve compiled a list of ways your business can make the most of Black Friday this holiday season.
Create a value-add offer: Create an exclusive offer just for Black Friday that attracts customers. Rather than just discounting your services or offerings, consider creating an add-on such as a BOGO or bonus offer.
For example, an HVAC company offers a free winter maintenance service when customers sign up for an annual maintenance contract before the end of the year.
Offer a bundle discount: The key to effectively bundling your services is to pack as much value into your bundle so that you have your customers saying, ‘what a deal’!
For instance, a pest control company bundles their pest and mosquito services by offering 50% off all pest services when customers sign up for a 2023 annual mosquito service contract.
Drum up a sense of urgency: Offering your customers deals that change on a regular basis throughout the day, week, or even month can drum up excitement and increase engagement.
E.g., A law firm creates a series of discounts for their services and a busy promotional calendar, including offers for drafting a last will and testament, healthcare power of attorney, general durable power of attorney, a living will, and a prenuptial agreement.
Shine a light on your business by showcasing your commitment to the community: Use this opportunity to share your mission and how your business is impacting the local community.
Take an automotive repair shop, for example, offering deeper discounts on oil changes to community heroes as a part of their Black Friday promotion to acknowledge the extra hours they put in during the holidays.
Partner with other local businesses to increase awareness: Maybe your business receives referrals from another, this could be a good opportunity to offer a dual promotion to help support both businesses.
For example, a dental practice refers their patients to an orthodontist down the road. They offer a Black Friday promotion for discounted teeth whitening for every new Invisalign patient.
Curate a holiday gift guide highlighting your items or services: Does your business provide items or services that would make great gifts? Create a guide that promotes those items along with your Black Friday promotion.
Consider a medical spa, for example, that creates a holiday gift guide (digital and print) promoting their services that can be easily gifted along with a 15% off discount for everyone who uses the included discount code.
Extend your offer or promotion: While you’ve got your customers' attention, it’s important to extend your offer and catch any looming procrastinators.
E.g., A local bank extends their holiday credit card enrollment offer of 0% interest for an additional 6 months if clients sign up for a credit card before the end of the year.
Leverage these tips and make this holiday season the best for your business and your customers. Plus, check out our comprehensive checklist on how to use CallRail to prepare your business for its most productive Black Friday ever.
