OwnerListens supports Small Business Saturday!
Ever notice how the big retail stores tend to get all of the attention on Black Friday? People climbing over each other to grab a door-buster deal on this year’s hottest tech product or children’s toy? Well, we here at OwnerListens are much more excited about Small Business Saturday (SBS), an initiative launched by American Express in 2010 to encourage consumers to support small businesses during the biggest shopping weekend of the year. Over 100 million American consumers participated last year, and it’s safe to say that this Saturday, November 24th, will have the largest turnout yet.
OwnerListens wants to remind all of the participating small businesses that increased traffic can also sometimes lead to increased frustration, sometimes for reasons out of your control. If you’re not prepared, frustration can turn into complaints or even negative reviews that have a lasting effect on your business. Here’s how you can stay ahead of the game, and make sure that you keep your business strong:- Social Media – If you update your hours, inventory, or promotions, keep your customers in-the-know by updating your Facebook, Twitter, and other social feeds. Customers who know what to expect when they hit your store will be happier and have a better experience than those who are surprised.
- Prepare Your Employees – Let your employees know what to expect in advance. Make sure they’re ready for the rush and that they can answer all the tough questions about your new products. Customers will appreciate the detailed knowledge and personal touch that only small businesses can provide.
- Listen! – One of our favorite parts about small businesses is how much they appreciate their customers. Let your customers know that you’re listening to them by signing up for OwnerListens and using the service to get their feedback. It takes less than 30 seconds to sign up for this free service, but we think you’ll appreciate the ability to communicate directly with your customers. Don’t make them talk about you behind your back by posting their frustration on Yelp!

Michael and his team gutted and reotavned my washroom. He made sure to involve me along the way and presented options when we came upon unexpected issues. He also replaced all the doors and hardwares and boxed in two really outdated closets with sliding doors, to create beautiful double door closets. He has done a great SOLID job of my washroom, and doors and as soon as I can get him back to do my apartment floors, he will be there!! Victoria