You need traffic to increase sales, whether it’s online or in person. If your business is struggling to bring in customers, you already know something has to change if you’re going to thrive.

For online businesses, that might mean search engine optimization or better user experience. For physical storefronts, it’s often about location. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to pack up and move to bring more people through your doors. With the right strategies, you can create more traffic right where you are.

Know Your Ideal Customer First
Foot traffic is great, but not all visitors are created equal. You don’t just need people walking by—you need the right people walking in.
For example, if you own a bakery that makes gourmet dog treats, a parent searching for a Paw Patrol birthday cake isn’t your ideal customer (unless they’re throwing a puppy party too).

Before you invest time into new strategies, take a step back and define your ideal audience: Who are they? What do they need? What problem are you solving for them? When you understand that, you can shape your marketing efforts to speak directly to those customers and bring in people who are more likely to buy.

Show, Don’t Just Tell
Many businesses are good at telling people what they offer. Fewer are good at showing why customers need what they offer.
Saying “We have the best bread in town” sounds nice, but it won’t get someone off the couch. Now imagine saying this instead:

“Our bread will make every other kid at the lunch table jealous. We’re so sure of it, we want you to stop by between 10 and 2 for a free sample—because nothing beats bread fresh out of the oven.”

That kind of messaging taps into a customer’s emotions, pride, and sense of urgency. It creates a picture that moves them to act.

Offer Something Irresistible
Even if you’re not in the food business, the principle behind free samples works. People love to experience something before they commit.

• A bookstore could offer a sample recipe from a featured cookbook and let the aroma fill the shop.
• A pet store might give out free treats.
• A furniture store could offer a messy snack to demonstrate how easily their fabric cleaner works.

1. Improve your curb appeal.
2. Keep your storefront spotless and signage in top shape.
3. Create eye-catching window displays that change often.
4. Use a sidewalk sign with clear, enticing offers.
5. Bring products or displays outside (where allowed).
6. Keep your store well lit—inside and out.
7. Team up with other businesses for joint promotions.
8. Host free classes or demonstrations.
9. Participate in local festivals or farmers’ markets.
10. Fully complete and update your Google Business Profile.
11. Run contests or giveaways on social media.
12. Offer free Wi-Fi to encourage longer visits.
13. Play music that sets the right tone.
14. Use a subtle, pleasant scent.
15. Keep your layout easy to navigate.
16. Greet every visitor warmly.
17. Offer help without hovering.
18. Train staff to provide exceptional service.
19. Add comfortable seating to encourage browsing.
20. Offer charging stations as a simple perk.
21. Provide coffee, water, or tea.
22. Add a fun, Instagram-worthy backdrop to turn visitors into ambassadors.

The Bottom Line
Attracting more visitors doesn’t have to mean moving your business or overhauling everything you do. Small, thoughtful changes can make a big difference. The key is to make your space inviting, create a clear reason for people to come in, and build a relationship with your ideal audience once they do.
And remember—you’re not doing this alone. Your Chamber is here to support you, celebrate your wins, and help you grow.
If your business is ready to boost visibility, traffic, and community engagement, let’s talk. Together, we can make sure your storefront isn’t just another spot on the map—it’s a destination.