Have you considered using a GoFundMe page or gift cards to give your loyal customers a way to support your business while you are closed? Small businesses across the country are successfully implementing the strategy. Strong ties to loyal customers can easily translate to short term help.  Your loyal customers know you, they like you, and in many cases they want to help you in times of crises.  The challenge many now face is supporting their favorite local business when their doors are closed or services are limited.  Below are two strategies that might help your business get through to them.

GoFundMe
They have created a special COVID-19 fundraising page for small businesses.  Click HERE to view it.

Gift Cards
Gift Cards are an excellent way to allow your customers to support you when your doors are closed or service is limited.  There are many vendors that can help you set up a gift card program, including Square, Vistaprint and more.  For a list of potential gift card partners, click HERE to visit an article by Small Business Trends.

Tips for Success
If you utilize this strategy, here are some tips for success:

– Don’t be afraid to reach out! Your customers know we are in hard times, a honest appeal for help should not be received poorly.  Reach out to your customers through email, mail, or whatever means they are accustomed to hearing from you.

– Tell your unique story.  Your customers have a connection to you that goes beyond the products they buy, they know you and your staff.  Tell them your story, remind them of all the reasons why your customers love your shop.  Here is a good example of a book store in Ann Arbor, MI telling their personal story HERE.

– Support a cause.  Is there a way that your business can assist the community during this time of crises with your goods or services?  Turning your business into a resource during this state of emergency can be an excellent source of funding support.  For an example of how a restaurant in Orange, CA did it, click HERE.

Your loyal customers are your best source of support in good times, they can be in troubling times as well.  Don’t be afraid to reach out utilizing the right strategy for your business!