How Can Small Businesses Boost Sales During COVID-19?

By now, everyone has seen the effects that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on our daily lives. From social distancing to closing non-essential businesses and suspending school, the world may seem a little upside down right now, but we understand that life doesn't stop just because normal routines have been disrupted.

This is especially true for business owners, who are feeling the hit from the pandemic hardest. In fact, WalletHub found that 87% of small-business owners  are struggling due to the economic and social response to coronavirus.

No matter if your storefront is currently closed or you're operating under limited hours, here are some easy things you can do to continue to boost business and promote public health during these times:

Make sure your website is updated and user-friendly

Even though non-essential businesses are closing their brick and mortar locations, you can still run your sales online. Take the time to look at your website through your customer's eyes. Is it easy to navigate? Is your contact information updated and easy to find? Freshening up your online presence can help customers find your business even if your store is closed.

Consider running an exclusive online sale or offer free-shipping to increase sales.

Promote gift cards

Sales may be slow for small businesses across the board, but if you're in the service industry your income may have truly come to a standstill due to social distancing. If you operate a salon, pet grooming center or really any other business that relies on providing just a service, there are still ways to get through this slump in sales.

Shopify recommended promoting gift cards  from your online platform or even with a sign outside your storefront. They are a great way to immediately earn some income and ensure customers will return to your store when business is back to normal.

Increase online sales by offering free local delivery.

Try a delivery service or curb-side pickup

Mailing the majority of your orders may be impractical if your customers are mainly locals. In this case, mimic how restaurants have been operating under these conditions. Many food service providers are still operating their business but solely as take-out in-line with social distancing rules.

If you have a car, consider fulfilling your customer's orders with a delivery service or offer curb-side pickup. This way, customers can still receive your products faster instead of waiting for snail-mail. Just make sure to outline your business procedures for delivery and pickup on your website so customers can be prepared.

Communicate with your community

Finally, don't forget to reach out to your local community. Business 2 Community explained that in times like these it's important to help just as much you try to sell . While it may feel like you're just trying to keep your business afloat, continue to help your local community any way you can because they will be the one's supporting your company when things return to normal.

At Vectra Bank, we understand that these are stressful times for everyone. As a Small Business Administration-preferred lender, we are well-positioned to help you efficiently navigate the SBA loan application process* to keep our customers' businesses afloat.

Contact your local Vectra Bank Representative today for more information.

^{*Subject to credit approval, SBA approval. Terms and conditions apply. See banker for details.}