5 tips for navigating the holidays as a small-business owner this year
December 10, 2020 11:35 am Leave your thoughts
With the peak of the holiday shopping season just around the corner, millions are racing to cross gifts off of their list for family and friends. However, as online shopping continues to surge at an estimated 33% increase in spending compared to last year — per The Associated Press — Americans can also expect significant delays in at-home deliveries from larger retailers as well as an increase in expedited shipping costs.
This unprecedented holiday season presents small businesses across the country with the unique opportunity to connect with their community and supply them with one-of-a-kind gifts for their loved ones. In the weeks ahead, take the time to grow your small business by following some of these tips to attract more local customers during the holidays and beyond:
Stay in touch through seasonally themed emails
How often do you email your customers? As one of the most powerful and affordable digital marketing tools available to small-businesses owners, personalized emails allow you to cut through the noise and reach customers at home and on the go. The Small Business Administration reports that 79% of small business owners consider email to be "important" or "very important" to their businesses as most consumers rate the channel as their preferred method of communication with their favorite companies. During the holidays, present customers who have opted into receiving your emails with unique gift-giving guides that involve your products and services as well as personalized promo codes to encourage them to shop with you this season.
Promote your products across social media channels
Whenever you receive new stock, be sure to utilize your business' online presence on Facebook and Instagram to highlight these products or to even offer limited-time sales to customers. Similar to seasonally themed email campaigns, social media posts are one of the easiest ways for small-business owners to get creative with their advertising during this busy shopping season. Consider how your current customers already use your products and find ways to re-frame your best sellers for the holidays ahead — you may find that you already sell that one perfect stocking stuffer!
Stock up on gift cards
As consumers scramble to wrap up their shopping in time for the holidays, one gift that's always sure to delight is a gift card. Ease your customers' stress by making you own gift cards available to purchase online or in store, while being sure to highlight the use of gift cards at your business across your social media. If your small business already offers gift cards, consider refreshing them with a winter or holiday-inspired design.
Keep it personal
While larger businesses like Amazon and Target may be able to offer their customers a wider selection of products, Funding Circle reports that 77% of consumers would still rather shop with independent or local businesses. Whether they shop with you online or in-store, take the time to craft a personalized experience for your customers with unique packaging or a handwritten thank-you note with every purchase. Small details such as these will encourage shoppers to come back for additional holiday gifts and any other purchases in the weeks ahead.
Offer curbside pickup during the holidays and beyond
Curbside and contactless store pickup options have become increasingly important to shoppers in light of safety concerns this year, as Incisiv found that 79% of shoppers consider store pickup availability as a very important factor when making a purchasing decision. Finding ways that your business can support these safety measures will not only promote the well-being of your staff and customers, but will also help to show your community that you care about them during these tumultuous times.
While this year has presented many unexpected challenges for small-businesses owners and their customers alike, this unique holiday season still has plenty to offer as we can come together to show our communities support. For more small business guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to The Law Offices of Donald W. Hudspeth, P.C. online.
Categorised in: Starting a Business in Arizona
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