How to Prepare Your Small Business for the Post-Holiday Shopping Rush

This year small businesses can expect a longer holiday shopping season. Many consumers started shopping as early as August and others are waiting for the post-holiday discounts. Prepare your business for its second wind to make the most of the post-holiday shopping rush.

Look Back at Past Years’ Numbers to Prepare

Avoid going into the post-holiday shopping rush blind by looking back on past years’ numbers. Sales data from previous years will give you an idea of the demand you can expect during this season. Did a popular product sell out in previous years? Did your calendar fill up with appointments during a certain part of the month? Take note of where and how most of your customers completed their shopping last year. Redirect more resources and staff toward the high traffic areas of your business to avoid being overwhelmed by demand.

Optimize Your Presence

This year many consumers are doing their holiday shopping entirely online. Whether your customers prefer to shop online or in-person, their buying experience should be positive. Your online store should be current and easy to navigate. Make it easy for customers to seek help or ask questions with a prominent contact option. If you expect a high volume of customer inquiries this season, consider adding a chatbot to your website to provide quick and helpful support.

Strengthen Customer Service

The post-holiday shopping rush is fueled primarily by consumers returning or exchanging gifts, using gift cards and certificates, and buying last-minute gifts. Avoid confusion or frustration by anticipating the needs of these post-holiday buyers. Make sure your return and exchange policy is easy to find and easier to read. Provide tracking information and updates on shipped orders so your customers feel assured their gifts will arrive safe and on time. A satisfied customer is more likely to return to your business during the rest of the year.

Offer Several Payment Options

Offering several payment options, both in and outside the holiday season, can give your business a great advantage. Fewer and fewer consumers are carrying cash and instead are opting to use credit cards or their mobile device. Displaying the forms of payment you accept is a great way to welcome customers who prefer alternative payment methods.

Manage Inventory to Streamline Operations

Your inventory management can make or break your business during the post-holiday shopping rush. As suggested earlier, you can use past data to predict the inventory you will need for the shopping season. Move seasonal overstock with discounts or bundles for the holiday shoppers that are looking for a great deal. Higher sales tend to mean higher returns; optimize the process for moving returned inventory to avoid delays and losses.

The holiday shopping season is constantly evolving and presenting new challenges and opportunities for small businesses. Your business should be prepared to serve holiday shoppers earlier than November and well into January. On top of following industry trends, pay close attention to the buying patterns of your most loyal customers. Preparing your small business to make your customers’ holiday shopping experience great all year long is the best gift you can give. For more insights on how to prepare your business for the holidays, visit PlainsCapital.com