Marketing your Business During the Holiday Season!

With marketing and technology constantly changing, keeping your business relevant and ahead of the curve is a continual struggle for business owners.  Not only do you have to keep up with the trends, but knowing where to put your marketing dollars is also confusing. Below are a few tips on how to market your business during the holiday season—while also staying budget-friendly!

Social Media Contests—If your small business is lacking a social media presence, now is the time to get one. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest are all excellent ways to get the word about your products and services and creating contests is one of the best ways to get the buzz going! Keep them simple, such as post your favorite Christmas song for a chance to enter, and keep them short to create a sense of urgency.. Post several pictures of what the prize giveaway is and customers will keep that in their mind while gift shopping.

Customer Loyalty—Every good business owner knows that customer loyalty is an essential asset to staying successful. Loyal customers repeatedly purchase your merchandise and bring in new customers—so why not show them your appreciation? Give them special offers, free shipping, or sneak previews.

Email Blasts—Yes, this method is tired and true, but do you know how to get your customers to open your email and not just delete it? Keep them simple, relevant and festive! Everyone wants a good deal. So stick to the point and wrap it up with a little holiday cheer. Who knows, it might just make someone’s day!

Open Houses or Special Events—These truly make your business stand out to your customers! Use an open house or holiday event to showcase seasonal gifts, menus, and specials so consumers can get a glimpse of your products in advance. Of course include holiday refreshments—hot cocoa or slices of fruit cake—to get shoppers in the holiday spirit! Don’t forget to hand out a coupon or special offer to get customers to return for more shopping.