E-commerce stores face an uphill battle during the holidays, as they are forced to compete with Amazon and other large online retailers. However, there are many strategies that they can use to level the playing field and keep customers engaged towards the end of the year. Here are eight possible solutions.
1. Create a Holiday Gift Guide
Buying gifts for certain people can be very difficult, even if we’ve known them our entire lives. A holiday gift guide with general suggestions will engage customers and give them a great idea for an extended relative or coworker they don’t know very well.
2. Start Advertising Early
If grocery stores can start putting Christmas displays out the day after Thanksgiving, there’s no reason why you should have to wait until the middle of December. You don’t even need to wait for Thanksgiving to pass unless you also have a sale planned for that holiday.
3. Offer Free Shipping and Returns
Assuming you don’t already, offering free shipping and returns is a great strategy because sometimes people buy things for friends or family members that don’t fit or can’t be used. Allowing returns and free shipping will boost sales and eventually create higher profits in the long term. Whether they’re buying CBD products, dog beds, or children’s clothing, people like a good deal on shipping and will be inclined to purchase more.
4. Add an “Order By [Date]” Banner
Having a banner at the top of the screen that reminds customers to order by a set date, like December 17th or 18th (depending on your location and customer base), to ensure delivery before Christmas will motivate them to buy now instead of waiting.
5. Festive Promotions
If you have a variety of products or services, a “12 Days of Christmas” gimmick might be the perfect thing to entice customers, some of whom might order on multiple days for optimal discounts.
6. Charitable Donations
A great way to both get customers and help the greater community is to partner with a charitable organization like Toys for Tots, Feeding America, or a similar organization.
7. Promote Gift Card Sales
Gift cards are a perfect win-win proposition for you and your customers. They can give their friend or relative the opportunity to choose the gift they want. You’ll get a sale now and another sale later on, which could exceed the value of the gift card and result in more cash.
8. Use Social Media
Advertising on Instagram or Facebook is a great way to get eyes on your product, especially when using video advertisements. They’re a great way to introduce your products or services to a wider audience while also showing the great savings they’ll be able to enjoy.
These are just a few of the many ways that online retailers can set themselves apart from the competition during the holiday season and boost their sales. E-commerce stores can enjoy extra revenue in these months and help offset the slower months they might encounter towards the beginning of the year.
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