Seven ways to boost business during the holiday season.

If the bells that you hear ringing are cash registers, than sure enough the holiday season has begun.

  How can you make this season your most profitable? By not using the same marketing tactics you’ve used for the rest of the year. 

Here are some tips to get you started:

1)     Recognize who’s buying. Did you know that women – and even more specifically women with children – do the majority of holiday buying?  Start focusing on that target market to increase your sales.

2)  There’s more than Christmas going on. The reason it’s called the holiday season is because there are so many holidays from November to year’s end.  If you are just using the word ‘Christmas’, you’re losing out on other people who celebrate differently. (Think about that when you are choosing your holiday cards.)

3)  Send out a card with a bonus. We all love getting holiday cards.  Why not send one out to your customers with a free gift. In the card, tell your customers to stop by or if online, go to a certain web page, for a free gift or discount.  This is a great way to get rid of stock that’s getting old.

4)     Update your site and promotions. Get a holiday feel to your web pages and advertisements.  Offer holiday promotions right on the home page.  Add some tips pages that help your customers choose the right gift.

5)     Donate a portion of your proceeds. Show your company’s heart and donate some of your proceeds to a charity.  Even better: let your customers choose the charity they would like to have you donate to.

6)  Be Santa when networking.  Holiday parties are much more laid back, but that doesn’t mean you should stop networking.  But instead of handing out business cards, think of ways to give to each and every person you meet. Perhaps it’s good advice, a business tip, or even a small token. (And don’t forget to follow up with a nice holiday card.)

7)     Tie in your press releases with the holidays. Look at ways you can use a great story idea with the media.  For example, a pet supply company owner can offer traveling tips with Fido. An interior designer can give quick and inexpensive holiday décor ideas. A financial investor or accountant can show ways to make the most of the end of the tax year.

Successful holiday marketing campaigns are within the reach of any business, no matter what your budget. The worst thing that you can do is nothing.  Make a plan and stick with it for the best results.