5 Ways to Make Sure Your Grand Opening is Really Grand

Take a deep breath, and get ready to wow the world with your new business. Very soon, your hard work will be on display, and even though you’ve probably heard some frightening statistics about small businesses, (for example, Business Insiders states more than 200,000 small businesses were forced to shutter between 2008 and 2010) statistically speaking, the numbers are actually on your side. According to Dun and Bradstreet, data obtained from the Census Bureau actually shows nearly 70 percent of new small businesses that have employees will make it to the end of their second year.

One of the keys to becoming a success right out of the gates is to get your new business’ name out into the public eye. How many times have you driven by a business and had no idea it even existed before? Throwing a successful grand opening will ensure you won’t be one of those anonymous businesses that opens quietly and then disappears just as noiselessly into the night.

1. The Importance of Social Media Today

Don’t underestimate the value of Twitter, Facebook and Instagram in your marketing campaign, especially in the days leading up to your grand opening. No matter how small your business is, you should take advantage of these three free self-promotion vehicles.

It’s not enough, however, just to create these social media pages and add a few pictures. You need to work them. While you don’t want to blow up the Facebook news feeds of your friends and followers, posting at least an announcement a day will remind future customers to come to your grand opening. In addition, make sure to feature pictures of intriguing products or services you will be selling, so your customers will have an idea of the type of business you will be running.

2. Get Them in the Doors

Most people enjoy attending special events. Even people who might not normally walk into your store or business might be drawn in by the promise of an exciting grand opening, or seeing something new in the neighborhood. Offering free refreshments and giveaways will also draw in more potential customers. Your refreshments don’t have to be cost a lot — simple cookies and juice will often be enough to draw in those passing by. If you do decide to give prizes, make them gift certificates to your business, so consumers will feel a need to return to your store and spend money.

3. The Physical Reminder

Don’t just rely on the Internet to remind future customers about your grand opening. Most people also need a physical reminder, such as inexpensive, but clever and eye-catching, postcards. Unlike a letter a person has to open, postcards allow your customers to see all the information as soon as they pick it up, such as the time and date of your grand opening. To entice customers to keep your postcard and to come into your store, you should feature a special discount offer on them.

4. Entertainment

Do you know a musician who is looking for a platform to showcase his talent? Why not invite him to perform at your grand opening? Live music is always a great draw.

5. Be Prepared

You’ve probably heard the saying, “You only get one chance to make a first impression.” It’s imperative your grand opening gives everyone who enters your business a great impression. In today’s business environment where everyone is a critic on Yelp and other forums, it is too hard to reverse a poor showing. Make sure you have enough help on hand for your grand opening, and everyone is trained properly.