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By Flora Morris Brown, Ph.D. | September 1, 2008
A stroll through any major retail store will reveal that the preparation for the holidays is well under way.
Whether you own a retail store or homebased gift basket business, it’s time for you to prepare as well. Here are some tips to help you enjoy a successful holiday season.
- Wise up
The economy is still taking a beating so you must be wise in your purchases and in your offerings. Folks will still buy gifts, but will lean toward more affordable choices. Consider offering stand-alone gifts and easy-to-assemble alternatives. Also, look to companies and corporate clients who use end-of-the-year gifts to thank their clients. They will buy in volume and that increases your holiday profits.
Get some ideas from my free e-course “Satisfy Customer Demands for Low-Cost Gifts.”
- Pick up
Clear away the clutter in your studio and organize your inventory and supplies. Now you can see what you have to work with and what needs replacing. Besides you will reduce unnecessary stress by being able to put your hands on what you need when you need it.
If your studio is ready for a makeover, learn how on “Gift Basket Design Studio Extreme Makeover.”
- Stock up
Now that you can clearly see what you have, replace supplies and inventory to carry you through the season. If you count on equipment such as a heat gun or glue gun, buy an extra one. Frequently-used equipment tends to crash in the middle of the night when you’re in the middle of a large order.
- Dress up
Decorate your store and revise your website. Make it easy for folks to navigate their way through your store and website.When you go out to make corporate presentations, dress professionally casual.
- Staff up
Hire additional staff as needed, or at least have them on standby. Many small businesses count on family members and friends for extra manpower. Others hire part-time seasonal workers from staffing agencies.
- Speak up
Market your business vigorously. Send announcements, postcards, coupons and invitations to your current customers. Send press releases to your local paper. Stage holiday events in front of or in your store to draw walk-in customers.Expect last-minute orders and let people know that you welcome them (if you do.)
- Rest up
Get yourself physically and mentally ready for the intensity of the season by eating right and getting adequate sleep. No matter how much you’re prepared otherwise, you won’t be able to carry off a successful holiday season if you ignore this advice.
Topics: gift basket business, gift basket inventory, gift basket supplies, holidays and celebrations, increase profits, marketing |
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