How to Execute the Opening of Your New Business

Opening a new business can definitely be overwhelming but with a strategic plan in place, the opening of your business can and will be a breeze. Keep reading for tips that we’ve learned along the way to help you execute the opening of your new business. 

Create your brand

Your brand can help to tell the story of your business and can educate customers on what they can expect from your business. To create your brand, consider your mission, the features and benefits of your product or service, what sets your company apart from competitors and the qualities you want your customers to associate with your company. Once your brand is defined, it’s time to show it off! Create a logo, define your messaging and content and create your brand voice.

Build a social media following

Social media marketing is a great tool to use to create brand awareness, create “buzz” around your new business and attract new customers. Once your social media profiles are created, invite friends and family to follow your pages then work on growing your following organically. This will help you build a good follower base to boost engagement on your page. Next, develop a social media strategy and begin creating content. Monitor the activity on your page, review your top-performing posts, and reply as quickly as possible to any messages and comments that come in. Make sure to keep your brand consistent! 

Establish local connections and partnerships

A great way to increase brand awareness in your local community is by establishing partnerships and connections with other local businesses. Feature their products in your storefront, collaborate on a menu item or participate in a local event. Don’t forget to include these partnerships in your social media strategy!

Inform the local media of your opening date and plans

Public relations is another key to building brand awareness and creating “buzz” of the opening of your business. Start by researching local journalists who cover topics that are relevant to your business. Next, draft your press release. Include any relevant information about the opening of your business, such as the opening date, what customers can expect and anything unique about your business. 

Before your opening date, invite the media to an exclusive VIP or media event. This will allow members of the media to take photos and learn more about your business, get a sneak peek and an interview to publish ahead of opening.

Have a plan for your opening event

Your opening event is going to be the public’s first impression of your business, so it’s important to have a strategy in place so that the event runs smoothly. Consider how you want the event to look and feel and make sure that you have extra staff on hand to help out if needed. Hire a photographer or a staff member take photos of the event to post on your social media pages later. Also invite your friends and family to your opening event to help support your business and tell their friends. 

Establish a plan for after the “buzz” dies down

Your opening event and efforts prior to opening your business will generate a lot of interest in your business, but what happens after the “buzz” dies down? Create a plan to keep people interested in your business including sticking to your social media strategy, participating in community events and brainstorming new ways to generate interest. 

Are you ready to plan the opening of your business? Social Ape is here to help! Contact our team today to get started.