Staples Copy & Print now offers new, low prices on key services, including business cards, banners, engineer prints and more, so small businesses can make more happen. For more information, visit: http://www.staples.com/sbd/content/copyandprint/index.html. This post is sponsored by Staples.
For many small business owners, November and December are the “make or break” time of year for their company. Reaching stated sales goals during these months may determine the level of profitability for the year. This means that owners need to start planning now for holiday success.
Here are 7 steps to take this month before it’s too late:
1. Plan inventory. Secure the best deals from vendors by getting the inventory that is needed now. Having products in stock when the customer orders is the only thing that will guarantee a sale. At the same time, investing too much money in unsold inventory will drain the company of needed cash flow. Use past years’ sales reports as a guide.
2. Get additional help. With unemployment relatively low, there will be competition for holiday workers. Secure those people now by contacting last year’s team members and advertising for resources that are needed. Expect to pay a higher rate this year especially as many states now have higher minimum wage requirements. Rely on outside resources like the Staples Copy & Print to provide the promotional material needed to get the best team members.
3. Announce “Doorbusters” now. This sale technique used to be reserved for Black Friday. Start using it weekly to attract customers to the retail store or website. This can be in the form of special pricing for popular items and one time bundling of products or services that show added value. Do joint promotions with other complementary businesses. Have specific upsells and cross sells prepared for purchasing customers. Look at Staples Copy & Print to promote these deals by having them provide printed signs, banners and flyers. Getting new customers now will ensure that the company will be able to market to them for bigger purchases during the holiday season.
4. Give thanks weekly. Everyone gives thanks during Thanksgiving. Set the company apart by publicizing how the business company is giving back to the community every week. Staples Copy & Print can reinforce customer and employee appreciation with custom gifts. This will result in employees and vendors being more committed to the company. In the age of the Internet, customers want to buy from authentic businesses that care for their employees and local community.
5. Sign up for Small Business Saturday. American Express will be helping every small business owner again this year with their after Thanksgiving “Small Business Saturday” event. Sign up now for promotion kits, free online ads and incentives both for small business owners and their customers.
6. Get back up. What happens if the website goes down? What if inventory does not arrive? What if it snows or the power goes out in the store? What happens when employees get sick? Have a contingency plan for this time of year for even the craziest scenario. These plans may include having hand written order forms ready for the staff (and printed at Staples Copy & Print!)
7. Go social. Don’t promote holiday offers directly on social media sites, but instead give advice consistent with your brand. Tell customer success stories on Facebook, Twitter and your company blog. Check out Staples LinkedIn Succeed Group for tips from small business experts and other small businesses.
What is your company’s holiday plan?
