A Benefit for Businesses, Pay it Forward

This blog is about something good, really good, for the businesses who have been struggling to survive. 

Since March, we have been in unchartered territory. We have seen restrictions, particularly in the retail, restaurant and entertainment business. We know these restrictions are important for the health and well being of the owners, employees, and customers. But we need some good news. We need to find a way to promote these businesses, to get them attention, to bring the people back.  We know all about zoom traffic, but we want foot traffic. What can we do that will be minimal for cost but will benefit the business financially in the long run?

In this case, my thought is you have to give something to get something. A perfect opportunity is a gift certificate for your products or services. Let's give an example, with a fictional restaurant and lounge. A $50 gift certificate to Dusty's Diner is a great deal! I've heard about their dinner specials, which could be Ozzie's famous omelette or Julie's famous jambalaya. Wow, if I win that $50 gift certificate, then we are going to go try Dusty's Diner sometime. After all, if we won something, we are going to use it.  And, if we really like their food, we'll go back. And, we'll tell others.

Get the drift? That $50 gift certificate goes a long way for a business. First, it is promoted by the charity organization doing the raffle. It's posted on their website. Then the winner receives it and sure enough, it "pays forward." That means, more recognition, more customers. And, more of those awesome omelettes and juicy jambalaya dishes.

Sound interesting? Where would I find a raffle to promote my business? Well, you came to the right place, because "I have an idea!" Because, that's what I do.

The Capital District Sports Women of the Year program (CDSWOY.COM) honors outstanding high school and college female student-athletes for excellence in community service, academics and athletics. CDSWOY will conduct an online raffle early in the spring, with a grand prize of a three day stay at a four star hotel at a major U.S. city (good for 36 months), along with a $150 gift card to The Capital Grille. This is a $1,500 value. But that raffle will also include numerous prizes from local businesses...like Dusty's Diner? How about YOUR business?

Let's promote your business. Let's plan on getting those customers back when we promote this raffle. Let's get new customers. Let's "pay it forward." 

For more information, write me at [email protected]. I'll give you all the details. And hey, if you or a friend's business provides that gift certificate, maybe the omelette is on me!