Connecting With Your Customers During The Holidays Is Good Marketing!

It's the holiday season! And yes, that's the beginning of a goofy Christmas song (that I must admit to liking!) that actually includes the words "So whoop-de-do and hickory dock." Apparently not many words rhyme with sock, or stocking for that matter, so why not hickory dock? But I digress! This week, since it is the holiday season, I'm talking about marketing tips for entrepreneurs, particularly those that are apropos at year's end.

It's a good idea to reach out directly to your customers and clients periodically. Better than ever to do it around this time of year when people are feeling a little extra sentimental (and when everyone else is doing it — don't be left out!). It feels like the natural time to express gratitude and appreciation for those who've helped you throughout the year. Customers fall into that category when it comes to your business. So be sure to tell them!

You've got lots of options when it comes to reaching out to clients. How you choose to do this depends on your budget, the type of business you have and your own personal style. Sending something electronically is easy (and free!), so doing that should always be a given. You could get more creative and send a video greeting. How creative and elaborate you make this depends on your style. But with some planning, the sky's the limit! A card or direct mail piece is also fairly standard. There are tons of online stationery companies where you could order a semi-custom card. Or you could spend a little more and hire someone locally to create something just for you. Whatever you choose, just make sure you convey a message of appreciation because that's what this is about.

Marketing Tips For The Holidays And Into The New Year!

If your budget allows, you can take things a step further and send a gift. It is the holidays after all! A thoughtful gift basket is always nice — but note the emphasis on thoughtful, meaning one filled with stuff people would actually want! If you can, select the contents yourself. (Or at the very least inspect the contents!) A gift can make a good impression, too. There are lots of companies where you can source quality items in multiples, even adding your logo so your customers see it every time they pack a picnic, open a bottle of wine, put on that comfy sweatshirt... so many options. It should be easy to match something to your budget, type of business, taste, and any other criteria you have in mind.

One of most direct ways to connect with customers is to host an event. Naturally, I love this idea, especially for small businesses! It could be an open house at your place of business, a restaurant/bar or other venue, or even at your home if you'd be so inclined. You can determine the type of event based on what you know of your clients. Stick to a caffeinated menu and make it a breakfast, brunch or drop-in afternoon tea kind of a thing if you want to play it safe. Throw in some mimosas or champagne, or opt for a happy hour vibe if you think that's your crowd. Overall, the idea is to invite your clients in person, get some face-to-face time with them and show them that you're grateful for their business. And don't forget, if you need help putting something like that together, that's what I do so feel free to call moi! Oh and btw, don't you like my "Let's Make Out" pillow that I'm holding in the blog photo? I know, it's a little random, but did it get your attention and make you want to read the blog? That's right – another marketing tip!

Be Oh So Quotable This Week!

I always say running a business means the work never ends! Ain't that the truth? I bet your to-do list is a mile long! Make sure that the items at the top of your list are the things that relate to being more profitable. Everyone is so proud of being so "busy"...But Are You Making Any Money? Don't be too busy to focus!

Check out the summary of last week's business tips and motivational quotes from my Instagram page which you hopefully got to see in real time! If not, let's make sure we're following each other on Instagram!! So...here is this week's roundup of Instagram images of My Top Business Tips and Motivational Quotes.

Marketing Tips – Tip #1:

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"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it." – William Arthur Ward

Marketing Tips – Tip #2:

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"Christmas is most truly Christmas when we celebrate it by giving the light of love to those who need it most." – Ruth Carter Stapleton

Marketing Tips – Tip #3:

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"Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts." – Janice Maeditere

Marketing Tips – Tip #4:

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"Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings." – William Arthur Ward

Marketing Tips – Tip #5:

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"He who has no Christmas in his heart will never find Christmas under a tree." – Charlotte Carpenter

Let's talk! I'd love to hear some of your favorite holiday marketing tips!

How did you reach out to your customers this holiday season? Did you give a gift, host an event, or something else? Tell us your marketing tips! What advice would you share with your fellow business owners? Which tips above did you find helpful? I would LOVE to hear from you!

Anyhoo...I publish these business tips and motivational quotes to get you fired up for your work week! And, if you want more business tips, get my book, But Are You Making Any Money? or contact me to really take your business to the next level!

xoxo M

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