CHRISTMAS MARKETING FOR SMALL BUSINESS
It’s that festive time of year again and you know what that means: Christmas marketing! Now the majority of small businesses reading this are unlikely to have a TV advertising budget, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get in on the Christmas act.
Email marketing is cheap and is still one of the most effective means of getting your product or service noticed – if you’re going to use a Christmas promotion, get it in up front, and make it clear.
What about giving you a link back to your online shop or website if they themselves have a web presence? Is there a possibility of getting your logo printed on any tickets, or leaflets? What about the event program if it’s a Carol Service or concert?
Finally, if you already have a number of regular or high-value clients, it’s always worth wishing them a Merry Christmas personally. The same is true for any prospects you feel you might like to work with in the coming year.
You could drop them a personal email, give them a call, or even send a hand-written card. Gifts are fine as well, but be careful what you choose – remember some people will not celebrate Christmas for religious reasons, and others may have dietary requirements to consider. In addition, avoid sending overly expensive gifts – you want people to know you appreciate their business, without them feeling uncomfortable about the value of what you’ve sent them.
If you’re a Café or bar, why not consider giving your regulars a free drink or a 10% off voucher which can be used in the New Year – not only is the latter a gift, but it might also help you kick off 2015 in the best possible way. You could even give them two – one for them, and one to give to someone else, thus helping to grow your clientele for the coming year.