Tis’ the Season – Get Ready!
Sep 8th, 2008 by admin
It’s hard to believe but the busy holiday season is right around the corner. With school back in full swing, the air turning crisp and Halloween and Thanksgiving a hop, skip and jump away, it’s time to start thinking about what you can do to tis’ the season! You should be thinking from both a giving and getting perspective. What can you do special for your customers, clients, dedicated Web site visitors and so on? And what can you do to increase sales, traffic and essentially the bottom line?
Well first off, start thinking about your cards. Unless you’re in the card publishing business or a retailer of these items, consider purchasing those that support a good cause. For example, both Artworks Foundation and the World Wildlife Fund offer a line of beautiful cards. If you decide to use a printer, consider handwriting a note inside and signing your name instead of having them pre-printed with a message. Purchase season-specific stamps not only to add a festive touch, but to keep the US Postal Service in business and the cost of mailing down.
As far as gifts, don’t send a coupon for a percentage off a product or service or a free t-shirt. These tactics are old and worn-out, and I can assure you that they are less appreciated than putting a little thought into the gift giving process. If you have the budget, send fresh Maine wreaths to your best customers or clients. Or give your Web site visitors a nice ergonomically correct mouse pad or wrist protector. Another option is a book. Unexpected, yet always welcomed, books can really hit a home run. Choose books that help your customers or clients in some way, and include a special note on the inside cover.
Now when it comes to giving your business a holiday boost, the sky’s the limit. Start advertising or promoting a holiday sale or discount early (even before Thanksgiving). Offer free gift wrapping or festive gift bags. You can purchase these items inexpensively at Oriental Trading. Work the holiday season into a special giveaway that drives traffic to your Web site or storefront. Like I always say, get creative to get results!
Happy early holidays!
