How Small Businesses Can Stand Out This Back-to-School Season

Posted on August 20, 2025 by Business Development Rep Samantha

Businesses that take advantage of holidays and key seasons where shopper demand tends to increase, typically see more shoppers and in turn – more sales. Customers are already shopping for back-to-school, so using strategies that will propel your business into the spotlight can help you earn a slice of that spending pie – which is estimated to reach $39 billion this year. And the best part is, your business doesn’t have to sell school supplies or first day of school outfits to join in. Here are five strategies your small business can use this back-to-school season.

1. Contests and Giveaways

Contests and giveaways are typically a win-win for both you and your customers. Your customers will have the chance to engage with your business and potentially receive a prize in return, which will help get the word out about your business and hopefully attract new patrons. One contest idea for this time of year, might be entering all who make a purchase and post a photo using a specific hashtag – into a drawing for a free backpack filled with school supplies. If you’re looking to connect with a specific type of customer, such as a teacher – think about offering a gift card for classroom supplies to an educator who posts their classroom, again using a specific hashtag. #PeopleLoveFreeStuff.

2. Create In-Store Experiences

If you have a storefront, you have a unique opportunity to create in-store back-to-school themed experiences for your customers. For example, you could invite a local teacher or school administrator to host a session for parents and students. Or, you could set up a back-to-school themed photo op within your store for customers to take pictures. Bonus points if they post the pictures and tag your business! Whether your customers didn’t know you had these experiences until they were already in the door, or they came to your business knowing you did – this shows your clientele that you care and are community focused too.

3. Offer Discounts

Back-to-school shopping is typically a family’s second-largest annual spending event and parents are understandably looking to save where they can. That’s where your business comes in – even if you don’t directly offer school essentials. You can encourage first-time shoppers to return to your store a second time, by offering them a back-to-school seasonal discount. For example – try using email or social media to offer a percentage or dollar amount off the next purchase, or a free product or service if they bring in their receipt from the last purchase. If you are targeting parents, show them how the savings they may get by shopping with you – can be put back into their budget elsewhere.

4. Special Bundles

Messaging is key. You might be thinking, “What does my pool cleaning company have to do with back-to-school?” The answer is everything – kind of.

If your business offers a product that is needed by parents, children, or educators during back-to-school season – offer them a bundle on your services. This can add value when you show your potential customers that you can save them money or trips to the store, just by choosing your business. Going back to our original example, if you own a pool cleaning company – offer a discounted bundle on early September pool skimming and equipment maintenance to save busy working parents from having to do it themselves. It’s all about how you market your business, and show how it’s relevant – in any season.

5. Don’t Forget Your Existing Customers

As a small business, your repeat customers are some of your best advocates. You have already earned their trust, they spend money at your business, and they promote your brand to others free-of-charge – so be sure to thank them for it! Offer special discounts or deals for returning customers as a way to say thank you for supporting your business, and showing them that you want to make back-to-school season a little easier on their wallets.

The excitement and nerves of back-to-school season are feelings that many people resonate with all-too-well. If your business can lean into the excitement and ease some of those nerves by offering shoppers what they need when they need it, you may be able to capitalize on back-to-school season and continue building a loyal customer base well into the future.

Learn more about how First Financial can help support your small business by emailing us at business@firstffcu.com. Be sure to check out all of our small business services on our website. For better business banking, Think First!

Mid‑year Check-in: Keeping Your Small Business on Track

Posted on June 17, 2025 by VP of Marketing and Business Development Jessica

As the year reaches its halfway point, it’s the perfect time for small business owners to take a step back and assess where things stand so far. A mid-year check-in is a powerful strategy to realign your goals, improve operations, and finish the year strong.

Here are five essential tips to help guide your mid-year business review:

1. Reevaluate Your Goals and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Remember those big goals for your business you set at the start of the year? Now’s the time to ask:

What progress have you made so far?
Are your current targets still relevant?
What adjustments are needed to hit your year-end objectives?

Whether you’re ahead of schedule or need to pivot, revisiting your KPIs ensures that you stay focused and aligned with your vision.

2. Assess Your Financial Health

Strong financials are the backbone of any successful business. Now is a good time to take a deep dive into:

Cash flow: Are you consistently in the black?
Expenses: What recurring costs can you reduce or eliminate?
Profitability: Are your margins improving, and what can you optimize?

Analyze the numbers – identifying small adjustments now, can lead to major improvements by year-end.

3. Check-in with Your Team

Your team plays a crucial role in executing the vision. Use mid-year as an opportunity to:

Have one-on-one conversations to understand team needs and goals.
Gather feedback on processes, tools, and workload.
Recognize accomplishments and plan for professional development.

A motivated, aligned team will always outperform a disengaged one.

4. Review Your Tools and Systems

Technology should be working for you, not against you. Ask yourself:

Are there any tools slowing your team down?
Could automation or new systems increase productivity?
Are your invoicing, payroll, or inventory processes efficient?

Even minor tech upgrades can save time, cut costs, and improve the customer experience.

5. Measure Customer Satisfaction and Retention

Happy customers are the key to long-term success, and mid-year is a great time to find out how well you’re meeting their expectations.

Look at customer retention, repeat purchases, and feedback.
Analyze survey responses, support tickets, and online reviews.
Use this information to improve your service and offerings.

Use these insights to fine-tune your approach and ensure your customers stick with you through the rest of the year and beyond.

A mid-year check-in is more than a to-do item on a checklist. It’s your chance to reset, refocus, and finish the year with purpose. Learn more about how First Financial can help support your small business by emailing us at business@firstffcu.com and checking out our small business services.

Why Every Small Business Should Have a Savings Account

Posted on August 16, 2024 by VP of Marketing and Business Development Jessica

For small business owners, managing finances effectively is crucial to long-term success. A business savings account is an often overlooked but essential tool in this endeavor. While many entrepreneurs focus on checking accounts for daily transactions, a savings account offers some unique benefits that can help safeguard your business and support its growth.

A savings account is distinct from a checking account in that it’s designed for storing money rather than making frequent transactions. Savings accounts typically offer interest on the balance, allowing your funds to grow over time. Unlike checking accounts for daily operations, bills, and payroll – savings accounts are ideal for setting aside money for future business needs or emergencies.

Keep reading to find out why every small business should consider opening a savings account.

1. Build a Financial Cushion for Emergencies

Unexpected challenges are inevitable in business – whether it’s a sudden drop in sales, unforeseen damage, or an economic downturn. Having a financial cushion in a savings account can provide much-needed stability during these times. According to research by the J.P. Morgan Chase Institute, the median small business has only about 27 days’ worth of cash reserves. By regularly setting aside funds in a savings account, you can increase your cash buffer, giving you peace of mind and the ability to handle emergencies without derailing your business.

2. Improve Financial Control and Budgeting

Managing day-to-day expenses alongside long-term financial goals can be challenging, especially when all your funds are in one account. By separating your savings from your checking account, you gain better control over your finances. You can allocate specific amounts for future expenses – such as taxes, insurance premiums, or equipment upgrades, and transfer them into your savings account each month. This approach reduces the stress of large, periodic expenses and ensures you’re financially prepared when they arise.

3. Earn Interest on Your Savings

Savings accounts typically offer more interest than a checking account would, allowing your money to grow over time. While interest rates on savings accounts may vary, even a modest rate can contribute to your business’ financial health. This can be beneficial for small businesses looking to maximize their resources.

4. Enhance Your Business’ Creditworthiness

A strong savings balance not only boosts your financial security, but also makes your business more attractive to lenders. When applying for a small business loan, lenders often review your financial statements to assess your ability to manage debt and expenses. A healthy savings account can demonstrate your business’ financial stability and increase your chances of securing financing.

5. Protect Your Money from Overdrafts

Overdrafts can be costly and embarrassing, and they’re often avoidable. By linking your business savings account to your business checking account, you can use your savings as a buffer to cover any unexpected shortfalls. This can prevent overdraft fees and the stress of dealing with insufficient funds. Additionally, setting up online alerts can help you monitor your account balances and catch any fraudulent activity early, further protecting your business’ finances.

6. Prepare for Future Growth

A business savings account isn’t just about protecting your current assets, it’s also a tool for planning future growth. Whether you’re saving for expansion, new equipment, or hiring additional staff – having funds set aside in a savings account ensures that you’re ready to seize opportunities when they arise. A strong cash reserve can give you the confidence to make strategic decisions that propel your business forward.

First Financial Wants to See Your Business Thrive

First Financial is here to support your small business every step of the way. For personalized advice on opening a business account and managing your finances – call 732.312.1500, visit a branch, or explore our services online. Don’t forget to subscribe to our First Scoop blog for more valuable insights and tips on managing your small business finances effectively.

*A First Financial membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See credit union for details. A $5 deposit in a Base Savings Account is required to establish membership prior to opening any other account/loan.