Small Business Saturday: 5 Easy Wins for Small Biz Success

Shawna Suckow
2 hours ago
2 min read

#SmallBusinessSaturday is more than just a hashtag — it’s a spotlight on the businesses that form the backbone of our economy, rather than the businesses with the biggest budgets. With more people boycotting the big box brands this year, it’s your time to stand out.

Here are five quick ways to make this shopping weekend work harder for you.

1. Start Capturing New (or Better) Leads

Every person who walks in, clicks over, or messages you this week is a chance to build your future audience. Make it ridiculously simple for them to opt in:

Pop-up or banner on your site
QR code near your front door or register. Offer something small in return: a freebie, insider preview, or “locals-only” deal. The point is to keep talking after the sale. (Pro Tip for brick & mortar stores: FedEx Office stores make quick, ridiculously cheap, high quality little 11x17 standing banners)
Even a simple sign-up sheet at the checkout counter works
To capture better leads, add some optional questions (to keep it non-annoying). What do they wish you sold? Are they a first-time customer? Or something fun like "Are you a dog person or a cat person?" (Keep 'em wondering why you're asking...!)

2. Ask for the Review While the Vibes Are High

When someone’s feeling good, that’s your moment. Ask happy customers to leave a review before they walk out or log off. Make it easy: tell them where (Yelp, Google, etc.) and give them a focus for the review. A simple script works wonders:

“If our small business made your day better, would you mind sharing a quick review? It'd be especially helpful if you mentioned _______ (service, selection, vibe, convenience, etc.).” You can even put a little card with a QR code in their bag or a QR code on a sign at the counter. Keep it human and low-pressure.

3. Pick One Focus — and Say It Loud

Trying to promote 10 things = promoting nothing. Instead, choose one message to drive home. It could be:

“We’ve got 37 gifts under $20”
“These are the items our team is most excited about”
Will's entire family loves this toffee. Check it out!"

4. Tiny Surprises = Big Impact

A little surprise goes a long way.

A handwritten thank you
A sticker or seasonal candy
A coupon for their next visit. It doesn’t have to cost much — just feel thoughtful. Big brands can’t match that.

5. Tell Them It Matters

Don’t assume they know. Let customers know that their choice to shop with you — instead of the big retailers — isn’t just nice. It’s everything. Say it to them if they're in person. Print it on a card. Put it in your boxes before shipping. Post it in a story.

“We’re so grateful you chose us - it matters to us, our small staff, and our community.” That one sentence builds more loyalty than a dozen promos.

Bottom line: You don’t need a huge budget to win this weekend. You just need to show up like a human who gives a darn — and that’s already your superpower.