We know that it’s still summer, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be thinking about the holiday season! If your small business is busy during the holiday season, then now is actually the time you want to be thinking about the holiday shopping season. Getting ahead on managing your inventory, marketing, promotions, operations, and storefront preparations will help your holiday season be smoother and more lucrative. In this blog, we’ll go over some of the basic things your small business should be working on to prepare for the holiday season shopping rush!
Manage Inventory and Order Supplies
- Review last year’s sales data to find your top sellers.
- Analyze trends for new sales opportunities.
- Place early orders with suppliers to avoid shipping delays.
- Stock up on non-perishable basics like boxes, tape, and gift wrap.
- Build product bundles or gift sets ahead of time.
Overview Marketing Strategy and Plan Promotions
- Outline a calendar for key dates like Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.
- Draft early-bird email campaigns or VIP loyalty offers.
- Design holiday graphics for your social media channels and website.
- Plan out-of-the-box local partnerships or community events.
- Decide on sales and offers providing ample promotion time.
Optimize Your Operations and Website
- Test your e-commerce checkout flow, speed, and mobile layout.
- Update your website’s design and content to show information is reliable and up to date.
- Clear out summer inventory with a late-season sale to free up cash and shelf space.
- Draft holiday staffing needs and tentative extended hours.
- Prepare holiday procedural guides for new and support staff.
Prepare Your Digital and Physical Store Setup
- Fix any mobile checkout issues on your website.
- Update your holiday operating hours online and on your door.
- Add festive graphics and effects to your digital storefront.
- Plan festive window displays or seasonal branding.
- Post your final holiday shipping deadlines clearly online and in-store.
Who Can Help Me With Digital Marketing Before The Holiday Season?
If you think your website and digital marketing strategy needs a boost before the holidays, Blackbear Marketing can help! Get in contact with us so we can discuss where your website and digital marketing plan could use some improvements and how our team can help!
