L, M, S, VS

The bulk of my design work is helping large businesses and entities with their advertising and marketing by way of strategy through a design filter. But I love small businesses – what I call Very Small Businesses. And there is so much that I do for large businesses that could also help them. There is also a lot that isn't really helpful for VSB's at all. And I see VSB's all the time that could do even better than they are by doing simple things that are either low-cost or completely free.

Here are three simple things a VSB can do that could make a big difference.

💸 Completely Free and Quick

I ran across a post from KJ Kearney (@blackfoodfridays on IG) about POSTING YOUR HOURS. This is a frustration I have had myself. And I encourage you to read the comments which are both hilarious and true – people are begging for this. Post your current hours on your website, social platforms, everywhere. His account is mostly food & bev based, but this is true for everyone. And are you open/not open on a holiday? That's a great bit of info for a social media post. While you are doing this, make sure your physical address is there too. I do not want to play Where In The World Is Carmen Sandiego.

⏰ Free/Low-Cost But Takes Time

Emails. If you have an email list you should be using it. These are people who already know and like you. You do not have to explain who you are, or what you're about. All you have to do is let these folks know about an event, special, new item, new location, etc. You do not need to email people often. I saw a business I follow use only social media to advertise an event. But they did not send me an email. Trusting Meta's algorithm to get the word out can be sketchy. And I know they have my email. You have found your people – communicate with them.

I label this free/low cost because a lot of email platforms have a free tier. Depending on how big your list is or how often you want to use it, it goes up from there. The email builders are drag and drop. Find some inspiration here, but keep it simple and informative. It can be as straightforward as logo >> information >> call to action (AKA CTA) link.

🪧 Costs Money, But Worth It

Readable signage. I've seen it all – weird color combinations, outlines, thin fonts, or just too small overall to be readable by even the young with good vision. A rule for outdoor boards and signage is, if you think it's too large, IT IS NOT. A designer can be really helpful here if even for just a gut check. I saw one VSB put multiple small signs all around the property. Yes, I saw the signs, but there were 5-7 of them and I couldn't read them all. The vibe was desperate. I'm sure they were inexpensive, but one large sign would have made a bigger impact than all the small ones.

Also, if your current location is not your dream location, signage becomes even more important. You have to signal that you are welcoming and open for business. Reassure people before they've even walked in.

👉 Forward this to a VSB that could use this!
🤓 If you are a VSB, let me know your questions in the comments.