Can you believe there are only 5 full work weeks left in 2014 and that includes this week? It's true, and with that you have to look at the marketing opportunities, of course!
The abruptness of it all hit me while having my morning coffee, but taking pen in hand, here are 5 marketing ideas that came to mind.
- Implement A "Drip Marketing" Campaign.
Wikipedia defines drip marketing as a communication strategy that sends, or "drips," a pre-written set of messages to customers or prospects over time, usually via email. Sounds perfect at this time of year for those who deal with healthy eating, exercise, finances, relaxation, psychology, travel, etc. Create a "drip" campaign that will guide your prospects and clients through the holiday season as appropriate for your industry.
. - Create A Gift Certificate or Shopping Coupon
Most people think "retail" when gift certificates and/or coupons are mentioned. If you are a retailer, make sure you have your own gift certificate/coupon for year round use, but also become creative for the holidays. See if you can partner with an associated business for a package gift certificate/coupon that will make both or you (or as many businesses as you include) more successful and attractive than going solo.
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Gift certificates and/or coupons are also very useful for professional service providers. Given the number of entrepreneurs that exist today, the gift of a coaching session, tax appointment, even a small insurance policy or stock certificate could be welcomed with open arms! Think of what you might be able to put together that would work for the recipient of the gift and how the gift might introduce your services to both the recipient and the gift giver for ongoing business.
. - Gather Email Addresses
No matter what type of business you are in, gather everyone's email address all the time.. Retailers, it just comes naturally with every purchase you receive, but even more so during the holidays. So easy to ask to use for follow-up, special dates, anniversary/birthday reminders, refills, new items etc. For everyone else the holidays make it much easier to ask for one's email address just because it's the holidays! Say you want to include them on your holiday mailing list. At the same time ask if you can also stay in touch with them throughout the year, via email. A very easy way to get permission!!
. - Share Your Favorite Non-Profits.
People love good things! The holiday season is a perfect time to let people know what your favorite non-profits do and for you to tell your story about why you support them. It will strengthen your bond all the way around and also help your favorite non-profits. Love and goodwill ... sounds like the holidays to me!
. - Review Your 2014 Marketing Strengths and Weaknesses
Grab a cup of coffee or glass of wine and review your business over the past year;. What were your strongest marketing efforts and what were your weakest. What will you let go of and what do you want to work on. Use your best and your worse to carve out your marketing direction for 2015. Now is the perfect time for getting all your thoughts together. Come January, you'll be too busy!!
In the mean time,
Keep your business garden growing ....
margie
www.todaysway.net
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