The holidays come earlier each year, so corporations have to be ready to implement their holiday marketing strategy well before December hits. If we’re starting to scare you because you don’t have a plan yet, don’t worry; it’s not too late start!
Halloween is only a week away, which according to the displays in most retail stores, means Santa is already preparing his sleigh. Stores are filled with Christmas trees, candy canes, holiday wrapping paper and maybe a few items for that “other holiday” that everyone seems to forget about (sorry, Thanksgiving). Read on to learn the eight dos and don’ts of holiday marketing.
DO plan months in advance
Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm several holiday marketing options, decide on a direction and create stunning graphics and compelling messaging.
DO create content that’s valuable
Research to find out more information about your audience. What are they celebrating? How do they celebrate? Where do they celebrate?
Make sure the holiday marketing content you post offers something valuable to them whether that is information, happy thoughts or a coupon.
DO choose a theme
Create a theme that defines your holiday marketing campaign. Will it be about making memories? Spreading kindness? A joyous celebration? Delicious meals? Awkward family time?
Selecting a theme for your marketing strategy will make it easier for consumers to recognize your content, and it will entice them to be on the lookout for the next piece of the story.
DO post company celebration photos
“Brands…they’re just like us!” Did you know consumers, especially millennials, are less likely to buy from a company that seems unrelatable or faceless?
When you get together for your annual holiday party, don’t forget to snap a photo or two to share. Your potential customers will connect with you and your employees.
DON’T push sales unless it makes sense
Companies like Starbucks, Target, M&Ms and Coca-Cola can easily tie their products to the holidays and are now considered by consumers to be “holiday staples.” These companies use this connection in their marketing campaigns and their customers look forward to their annual holiday marketing.
Other companies don’t tend to have as strong of a connection. Many people couldn’t quite understand the connection Hellmann’s was trying to make with their holiday campaign. If your brand doesn’t pair well with other holiday staples, a simple “happy holidays” will suffice.
DON’T only focus on the big holidays
Businesses flood the market with campaigns for the “big holidays.” But, did you know November 5 is Book Lovers Day or that November 13 is World Kindness Day?
These smaller holidays are a perfect chance to capitalize on other trending topics in your content marketing that will interest your consumers.
DON’T be inappropriate
For many consumers, the holidays are about religious beliefs, helping others in need and spending time with family.
Some brands forget this in their marketing strategy and take the humor a little too far, such as K-Mart’s inappropriate commercials. Know your audience and how they will respond to your content marketing.
If you are unsure, be conservative and keep things appropriate to the holidays to make sure you don’t offend your audience.
DON’T forget about your current customers
While the holidays are a great time to attract new customers, don’t forget to show some love to your current customers, too. Send out an email to your current list and offer an exclusive special offer. Post or email to thank your audience for their business and support and make it holiday themed.
A successful holiday marketing campaign will set the tone for a new year with your customers! Don’t let your company be forgotten like Thanksgiving.
Instead, use an effective marketing trategy and campaign to connect with your customer. Need help putting together a holiday marketing strategy?
