The holiday season is here, and now is the time when people are looking to find the perfect gifts for their friends and families. Although this year is different from what we’re used to, one shining spot is the renewed support for local and small businesses. Clover is helping these businesses thrive this season as owners and customers adjust to the new norm.
COVID-19 is responsible for changing our holiday plans, but these tips from Clover will help ensure that your customers’ shopping experience is as jolly and safe as possible. Check out the different ways your small businesses can prep for the holidays, 2020 style, below:
1. Be sure your website is mobile-friendly and can accept online orders.
Since customers will be visiting stores less often than last year, we’ll see an increase in online shopping. Make sure that your online store is up to date and dressed up with your best visuals. And don’t forget to add special holiday packages and products. We all love a festive, mobile-friendly website!
2. Make sure your payment system is user-friendly.
A company’s payment system can make or break a customer’s shopping experience. Contactless and secure debit and credit card payments are the preferred options; Clover systems make the process simple and efficient. They’ve got you covered from mobile payment processing on deliveries to taking orders over the phone. Other features include Scan to Pay for restaurants and sending payment confirmation emails right from the Clover mobile app. These tools help the entire sales experience run smoothly.
3. Consider partnering with other businesses in your local community.
Teamwork makes the dreamwork, so why not create a one-stop-shop for customers? This approach can help your shoppers avoid the anxiety of traveling to multiple destinations to purchase gifts. It’s also a great way for you to attract new customers. It’s a win-win situation.
4. Encourage guests to pre-order holiday meals and make reservations early.
Food is a top priority during the holiday season, and we know COVID guidelines have us thinking ahead for our feasting plans. Since family gatherings aren’t recommended, take-out or dining in are the top go-to options for many. It’s a smart idea to encourage your guests to pre-order or make reservations so their meals will be hot and ready.
5. Offer Clover Gift Cards that allow your customers to make safe contactless purchases online or in-store.
E-gift cards or physical gift cards are great for customers to give to someone as a present to spread holiday cheer. They’re convenient and easy to use online or in person. They’re also a great way for your business to generate revenue.
6. Offer discount deals for customers.
Who doesn’t love a discount while shopping? Small businesses make a lot of money from holiday sales. Whether you’re a restaurant, retail store, or a service provider, you can offer new or regular customers a special gift through a personalized holiday email.
7. Set deadlines for last-minute orders—internal deadlines for you, ordering deadlines for your customers.
The holidays are the busiest time of the year, so deadlines are essential for businesses to function properly. This is an effective prep technique for you to map out and prepare the products, food, or services you plan to offer your customers. You can communicate your cut-off date via email and marketing promotions.
8. Make sure you have enough products to sell.
Supply and demand are real. Make sure you’re taking the necessary measures to provide enough products for customers to purchase. Your website should be up to date in case a customer tries to order a product that’s sold out. Clover’s point of sale system makes tracking orders and inventory a breeze and is fully customizable to your business needs.
9. Prioritize rest for you and your people.
2020 has been stressful. As a business owner, you and your employees deserve to rest and recharge during and after the busy holiday season. This year has taught us that self-care is required to succeed at any job.
10. Above all, enjoy it and have fun!
The holidays are about love and laughter, so don’t get so caught up in work that you forget the reason for the season. Make this new experience fun by trying new ideas with your business.
Want to find other ways to help your business thrive during this holiday season? Check out more useful tips from Clover’s holiday guides here: Restaurant, Retail, Services.
This editorial is brought to you in partnership with Clover.
