WHY SMALL CAN BE BEAUTIFUL

It’s Small Business Saturday in three days, an annual initiative to encourage people to support small firms and recognise their value to communities. Michelle Ovens, MBE, director of Small Business Saturday, said: “Last year was huge, with an estimated £748million spend on the day. We want this year to be as successful.” Here are six ways to get involved:

1. Make sure new customers can find you on Saturday by putting your business on the Small Business Saturday Finder. Sign up for free at small business sat ur dayuk. com/small-business-finder.

2. Create an event or offer a reason for customers to give you a second look. Think about activities you can do to encourage people through the door. Christmas music, festive drinks, balloons for children, an introductory offer or joining together with other businesses. Don’t forget to add your offer to your Small Business Saturday Finder profile.

3. Get involved locally – lots of activities are happening. Speak to your local council, Federation of Small Businesses or trade organisation, or check Twitter to see what’s happening near you.

4. There is a huge amount of activity on social media. Use the hashtag #SmallBizSatUk to find out what others are doing and to promote your business. You’ll find lots of interest from customers on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

5. Tell everyone you are getting involved and get them excited about the day too. This can be friends and family, current customers, neighbours or your local press (who are always up for hearing about fantastic small business stories).

6. Make it easier for sofa surfers too. A lot of people will offer to show their support by surfing through the event from home. Make sure you promote any deals, new products or interesting items on social media, and ensure you link directly back to your website. The Small Business Saturday logo is available on the website – download and use it so people know you are taking part.