Tips for Growing Your Business Over the Summer

4-minute read

Business owner working during the summer.

The lazy days of summer are finally here! And while that often means vacations and downtime, the summer slowdown can also be a golden opportunity for business expansion. Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your operations, discover hidden potential, or set the stage for long-term success, these summer small business ideas will help you make the most of the slow season.

8 Summer Business Ideas to Grow Your Business 

1. Self-assessment: your secret weapon for business expansion

Even when your business appears to be thriving, a comprehensive business assessment can help unlock hidden potential. For instance, your sales may be strong, but your expenses may be creeping up. By carefully identifying where your money is going, you can find ways to cut costs and increase profits. And with opportunities to save more, there may be opportunities to do more.

Find out how to steer your business toward growth with our small business assessment guide.

2. Competitor analysis: know your rivals.

Understanding what your competitors are up to is crucial. Identifying their strengths and weaknesses (as well as your own) can help you uncover opportunities to boost your business this summer.

Our step-by-step guide will help you conduct a thorough analysis of your business and your competition and find opportunities for even more success this summer. 

3. Optimize your website

In today’s digital world, your website is often the first interaction potential customers have with your business. And with more and more customers shopping online, a top-notch website can be key to generating more business.

A well-optimized website can boost your visibility, build credibility, and help you stand out from the crowd. Need some tips on how to get started? Our guide covers everything you need to know to make your website shine this summer.

4. Expand your reach with Google

If your website is your business’s digital storefront, a Google Business Profile can be the way potential customers get there. From basic information about your business to insights and customer reviews (more on those below), Google’s business profile is a no-nonsense, free tool that puts your business on the map—literally.

Check out our easy-to-follow guide for small business owners and start leveraging Google’s vast reach.

5. Amplify your brand on social media

Social media isn’t just for selfies and cat videos—it can also be a powerful tool for driving traffic, increasing sales, and building trust.

Start by focusing on one or two platforms where your audience is most active. With a bit of know-how and creativity, you can transform your unique story into a powerhouse of engagement that fuels growth. Our Facebook and TikTok guides will show you the ropes and can help you master the art of social media success.

6. Leverage customer reviews and referrals

There’s nothing quite like a satisfied customer singing your praises. Positive online reviews can boost your business’s credibility, attract new clients, and drive sales.Want to build a strong portfolio of glowing comments? 

Our detailed guide can help you get started sharing those five-star reviews that can bring in even more customers.

7. Engage with your community

While online success is crucial, consider the power of local engagement. Summer can be a great time to get involved with town festivals, business expos, fundraisers, and farmers markets to network and showcase your business. For tips on making the most of summer events for companies, take a look at our comprehensive guide.

Keeping up with trends isn’t just about staying relevant but driving your business forward. For instance, AI can boost efficiency, personalization can enhance customer experience, and better cybersecurity can protect your assets.

Check out our insightful guide to see how these and other business trends can help your business this season. 

Summer Reading for Business Growth

The often slower pace of summer doesn’t have to mean downtime for your business. Our Resource Center is packed with articles and ideas to support every facet of running your small business. And here are a few more to turn a slump into a season of growth full of summer business opportunities:

Written by

Courtney Hayes

Born and raised in the fishing port of Gloucester, MA, I grew up listening to the sea stories of local fishermen. My first job was “chum girl” on my dad’s tuna boat, where I spent my formative years covered in fish guts. Since then, I’ve worked as a researcher, blogger, and writer for documentary films. When not at work, you can find me surfing the cold waters of the North Atlantic or searching for warmer waves around the world.

Courtney writes on a number of topics such as risk assessment, starting a small business, and financial resources.

This content is for general, informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal, tax, accounting, or financial advice. Please obtain expert advice from industry-specific professionals who may better understand your business’s needs. Read our full disclaimer