Here are 3 great tips from Business Credit and Capital for avoiding the post-holiday sales slump and kick-starting sales. Make winter’s sales for January and February 2015 drive your best monthly profit ever!
1. Roll Out New Products or Services for the Post Season
Most businesses reveal new products or tempt their customers with a new service right before the holiday shopping season to maximize sales. The trouble with that strategy is that after the New Year, they have no ammunition left to drive January and February’s sales.
During the 2015 holiday season, try holding back one or two sure-fire products or new services to reveal post-holiday. Make the offer so tempting that it will be hard for a customer to resist. A house cleaning special, an upscale kitchen appliance or branded clothing at a fabulous price – anything that will make customers look twice and be tempted.
It may not be too late to roll out new offers to consumers this year. Think up a new offer if you’re a service company. Set up a ‘loss leader’ so tempting that customers can’t refuse. The goal should be to get customers in your door and buy more.
2. Think of a New Reason to Have a Special Sale
Did you know that January 29th of each year is National Puzzle Day? If you sell puzzles, this is an obvious hook for a fun special sale.
Here are more interesting official (or, not) holidays in January where you can plant your hook:
February 7th is Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day
February 8th is Kite Flying Day
February 10th is Umbrella Day
Check out the Holiday Insights website to find more quirky holidays in January and February. Make the holiday an annual tradition, with each year’s sale-abration different and more fun than the year before it.
Keep it lighthearted and fun. People like to be entertained – make sure your business is having more good times than any competitor.
3. Get Hooked Into Social Media
Have your customers fill out cards with their name and social media addresses on it. If they do, give them a slip for 10 percent off or a free cupcake. Then, be certain to keep the offers coming. You can get in touch with your new customer base twice a month or so (don’t overdo it and become a nuisance).
Have special social media friends offers for discounts or new products that haven’t hit your shelves yet. Offer a little extra for every person they refer to you. Be certain to follow this special customer base on all their preferred social media sites.
Keep track if someone is getting married, moving, whatever will drive your business. Give them a reason to visit or call you.
Sometimes, these ideas may cost money that you don’t think you can afford for the time being. In that case, don’t let new business get away. Business Credit and Capital can advance funds to your business to make your promotions truly memorable.
If you are creative and enthusiastic enough, you will probably gain far more than your initial investment.