The holidays are quickly approaching and it’s important that even though the year is winding down, your business does not. If you haven’t made plans yet, while you are leaving it a little late to be putting into place a grand festive campaign, you can still do something. For those that haven’t thought about it yet, here are some ideas.
For many small business owners and entrepreneurs, ramping up marketing might be difficult while you’re trying to juggle so many different things, especially during a busy time of year. But marketing around the holidays doesn’t have to be a massive effort, here are a few ideas you can incorporate into your last minute marketing plans:
Get in the spirit!
Spread some holiday cheer by decorating your consumer-facing assets for the season. Create some custom graphics for social media, change your layout for the holidays, and of course, don’t forget to spruce up your office or practice with decorations too. Consider running an advent calendar that caters specifically to your industry or business in the countdown until Christmas.
Be personal
It’s also a great way to show your customers that there’s real people behind your digital presence because the holidays are all about connecting with people. Publicise your company party photos, come up with fun ideas for personal blogs or social media posts. People love to see ‘behind the scenes’.
Remind customers of opening times
If your business will have reduced hours or will be closing altogether over the holidays, don’t forget to advertise on your website and social media channels. Take the time before you shut down for the break to schedule posts and emails to keep in touch with your customers and stay top of mind going into the new year. Plus, having new content to engage with might be just the escape some people are looking for over the holidays.
Promote special offers
If you are offering any special deals or promotions, this is a great way to get the word out. In particular you might want to reward loyal customers. The holidays are the perfect time to show them how much you appreciate them. Everyone loves feeling seen and appreciated, especially after the tough few years we have all experienced. If you are able to offer discounts or promotions, that’s a great way to show your gratitude.
Cards and corporate gifts
Good old fashioned Christmas cards, charity donations or even small gifts for major clients or customers could go a long way – but make sure you work within your company’s gifting policy . Going the extra mile to personalise your cards or gifts is a special touch they won’t soon forget. If you can afford to, and have the manpower to execute, consider running a special contest or event exclusively for your customers. Anything that helps you build strong customer engagement and foster connections will help you in the long-run.
Look to the new year
Don’t forget about customising your approach for the new year as well. Prepare your messaging and communications ahead of time to align with the pivot from holiday excess to a fresh new start.
Get a professional to manage your marketing effort for you
If you want to keep your business booming, but don’t have the time to dedicate toward marketing plans, we can help. Whether your goals are simply to stay relevant with your customers or reach sales goals with a last minute push, having your marketing plan prepared and implemented for you by experts will give you an edge on the competition – and leave you time to focus on your business.
