The holiday season isn’t just any season; it’s a small business owner’s dream come true. It’s that time when your business can get new customers, rake in the money to achieve christmas sales success. With millions of shoppers worried about money and seeking to take advantage of the best deals, your opportunity to secure your slice of the holiday sales pie is here. But, there’s a catch – early preparation is your secret ingredient to success.
The 2023 Shopify-Gallup Holiday Report reveals that 24% of shoppers are planning their holiday shopping as early as September and 41% before November
Now, let’s unwrap the secrets of getting your small business holiday-ready.
Key Takeaways
- Early preparation is crucial for small businesses who want to attain Christmas sales success, as millions of shoppers seek deals.
- Analyze last year’s and early months’ sales data to identify best-selling and slow-moving items.
- Price your products competitively to keep customers coming back.
- Decorate your physical and online store with festive decorations to attract customers.
- Offer irresistible discounts and create a sense of urgency with limited-time sales.
- Promote your discounts and special offers on various platforms, including social media and paid ads.
7 Tips To Prepare Your Small Business Ready For Christmas Sales Success
1. Analyze Last Year’s Data
Start by analyzing last year’s sales records, and don’t forget to check this year’s early months too. This will help you identify your best-selling items and those that are not selling as quickly as you would like.
2. Stock up Your Store
Now that you know your best-sellers, it’s time to stock up .Don’t forget those items that customers have been asking for! Strike the perfect balance, ensuring you meet customer demand without being left with too many leftover stocks after the holiday season.
Tip: Restock on time to avoid buying at higher prices.
3. Competitive Pricing
Set your prices thoughtfully. Be sure your prices are competitive, neither too high nor too low. This way, keeps your customers coming back for more.
4. Decorate Your Store
Get into the holiday spirit and give your store a festive makeover. Deck the halls with Christmas trees, bells, lights and stockings – it’s like a beacon that draws the attention of passersby. If you have an online store, add Christmas-themed banners, and Christmas trees GIF. Spread the festive cheer to all customer touchpoints.
5. Hire and Train Staff
Don’t let the holiday rush overwhelm you. Hire extra staff to keep things running smoothly. But don’t stop at hiring – make sure to provide them with the right training. Train all your staff on talking to how to assist customers, your discounts, selling to upselling, cross-selling, and even spotting shoplifters.
6. Set Your Holiday Store Hours
In the holiday season, consider extending your opening hours, including weekends. The longer you’re open, the greater the chances that someone will walk in and make a purchase from your store.
7. Promote Slow-Moving Items
Turn those slower-moving items into opportunities. Offer bundle deals, discounts, and freebies to attract customers and while getting rid of old stocks for the new year.
8. Offer Irresistible Discounts
Shoppers love a good deal. Stand in a competitive market by offering mouthwatering discounts that will make them choose your store
Tip: A limited-time sale can create a sense of urgency and make them shop from you.
9. Promote Your Discounts
Advertise on Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, WhatsApp, and paid ads to spread the word about your discounts, free delivery, and free gifts. Draw in both new and returning customers with your fantastic offers.
10. Do Giveaways
Show appreciation to your customers with thoughtful gifts – it doesn’t have to be expensive! A simple carrier bag or beautiful bowl can go a long way in showing your appreciation. Stand out from the crowd and make your customers feel special.
11. Plan for Multiple Payment Systems
Don’t limit your payment options to cash or bank transfers – include POS systems, QR code stickers, and contactless solutions. MyBiz by NowNow, makes it effortless for customers to pay in the way that suits them best.
BottomLine
In the holiday season, shoppers are ready to splurge, so don’t miss out by waiting too long to prepare. Don’t procrastinate and find yourself lagging behind the competition. Start early, implement these tips, and watch your small business sales ring to the sound of sleigh bells – the sound of success.