Is it my imagination or does it seem like Thanksgiving is the step child holiday this year? Everywhere I go, Christmas decorations are already up and have been since the day after Halloween. We go from carving Halloween pumpkins to full swing Holiday decorating mode.
Retail stores are on a high speed train From October 1st through December 25th, filled with Christmas trimmings alongside Halloween decorations. Even black Friday sales are already being marketed as "early black Friday deals" and retailers aren't waiting until November 29th.
Thanksgiving is taking a back seat this year. Maybe it's because it is a week later than normal because November 1st fell on a Friday. Maybe it's because people need a break from all the election discord. Maybe it's because we could use some joy with the world at war and all the tragedy that surrounds us on a daily basis.
Whatever the reasons - one thing is for sure. We all need help navigating the season. Here are a few quick tips to make your holiday transition run a little smoother:
Stay on track. It's easy to get overwhelmed with all the work ahead of you. Try to get into the habit of keeping track of what you ordered last year and when you need to complete each task. A detailed calendar from now until after Christmas will help keep you organized and calm over the next few busy months.
Order early. You know you'll need lots of greenery, flowers and supplies - so get a jump on your ordering now so your customers won't be disappointed.
Spruce up your marketing efforts. Customer engagement is vital to keeping your business top of mind. Make a social media calendar for yourself, schedule your posts and messaging from now until December 25th. Create stories and posts, telling them about what's new this season. Upgrade the design of your posts on Instagram and Facebook, so people immediately connect and recognize your brand.
Engage your staff. Train your staff to be customer care experts and not just order takers. Customers remember great service and will be loyal to you based on the way they are treated. Employees come up with great ideas if you give them encouragement. Be open to new ideas and new ways of getting the job done.
Make loyal customers feel special. The old 80/20 rule still holds - 80% of your business comes from 20% of your customers. Make those loyal customers feel like the VIP clients they are - with special products, VIP-only offers, sneak previews, private sales and rewards for their loyalty.
Take time for yourself. The holidays are exhausting. Customers can be very demanding around the holidays and you might feel like you're on overload between your responsibilities at home and with your business. Make sure you take time to breathe and take a break where you can. You will be more productive with a rested mind and body.
“I love Christmas. I receive a lot of wonderful presents I can’t wait to exchange.”
Henny Youngman
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