Optimism's High, Despite Some Big Hurdles

Good news for the end of 2021: 8 in 10 biz owners feel optimistic about their year-end sales and revenue, according to our recent poll data. And that’s a big deal, given that Delta concerns, inflation, supply chain issues, and labor shortages are still serious challenges. 

So why do you feel like Q4 is the turnaround you need, even in light of big hurdles? Here are some reasons you’re optimistic and a few member-backed tips to turn your hopes into a happy reality, ending the year on a high note.

End-of-Year 2020 vs. 2021: Things Are Looking Up (But They’re Not Perfect)

While many of you are dealing with headaches—finding holiday staff, sourcing materials, and looming Delta worries—there’s one big reason to feel optimistic this year: the majority of businesses are actually fully open right now. 

And this time last year, the holiday season looked very bleak: 42% of small business owners were uncertain about their businesses surviving until 2021. (This year, the number is still higher than we'd like, but much improved: 25% report being at risk of closing in Q4). 

Even better? More people are out in the world, visiting restaurants and stores and spending money. And that’s likely to continue into the fall and holidays, especially because of how cooped up people were during last year’s season. Bustling Main Streets = yes, please.

Additionally, economists predict that if COVID cases continue to fall, end-of-year consumer spending could bounce even higher. That uptick means good things for your bottom line. 

These factors are causing many to feel hopeful about their fall and winter sales. “In addition to being very busy this year, I am booking many weddings for 2022,” says Jackie Cassidy of Jackie’s Flowers and More in Salisbury, MD.

“I feel very optimistic about Q4 because I try to appeal to [my customer’s] wants and needs,” says Anginetta Walker of Anginetta Walker - Pain Relief & Wellness in Del Rio, TX.

Even so, many industries like restaurants and retail are struggling, which means the last months of the year are make it or break it. 

“Our business is dependent on a reliable supply chain, and we are currently in the midst of an unprecedented supply crisis. In addition our suppliers have raised prices twice since the beginning of the year. We cannot sustain another price rise,” says Gary Gattullo of Brooklyn Made Co., a branding and merchandising business.

How to Make the Most of the End of the Year

Whether you’re feeling hopeful like Jackie and Anginetta or struggling like Gary, there are some things you can try to make the most of your situation. Here are a few suggestions from members like you.

Offer special holiday deals with other local businesses

Start talking to other local businesses now about how you can band together to get more customers into your stores or purchasing your products this holiday season. You could run co-promotions for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday, Christmas, Hanukkah, and more.

Not sure how to connect with your local business community? Start on Alignable. 

• Post a discussion to your local community group or your home feed sharing your ideas and asking others to chime in. 
• If you’re not a local business, find a group of business owners like you to see how you can help each other succeed this season. 

Run a shop local campaign in your community

Remember, the more money that is spent locally, the more it circulates in your community and boosts recovery. So be a part of the movement to bring spending back to your area. 

Come together with other businesses to get the word out about the importance of local spending. Here’s a guide to help you get started and some great marketing strategies to get your campaign off the ground.

Think about holiday staffing now

Hiring is a big challenge for most of you right now—66% of business owners are struggling with it. To help, we put together some resources that can ease the hiring headache and get you the talent you need.

Head over to our Hiring Marketplace to learn more. 

How will you end the year with a bang?

How are you trying to maximize your end-of-year revenue? What would help you the most as you look ahead to the holiday season?

Share your story, struggles, and strategies in the comments and let us know how we can help. In the words of Anginetta, “Let’s start changing the future outcome together!”

For more ways to boost your recovery this fall, check out:

• Hiring Solutions for Your Small Business
• SBA Q&A: Tips and Tools to Move Your Business Forward
• How to post a job on Alignable, how to give recommendations the right way, and how to build stronger, more personal relationships with 1-to-1 video and live events