How Your Business Can Prepare for the Holiday Season Now

Before you know it, the holidays will be here. And then it’s too late! You run the risk of missing out on profits, growth, and overall holiday enjoyment if you don’t take steps now to prepare for the bustling season. With these tips, you can ready your staff and business for a successful holiday run:
 
Create your marketing plan
 
The holidays are a great time to introduce new marketing campaigns, graphics, and of course, seasonal promotions. The holidays offer a built-in theme along with a captivated audience looking to save on their shopping lists. Thoughtful giveaways and promotions can garner attention and drive consumers to your business and products. “Once you have planned your promotions, go ahead and order your free giveaways, have direct mail and ad pieces designed, and create a timeline so you’ll know exactly what you’ll be launching when,” according to Jane Haskins, Esq. and writer for LegalZoom.com.
 
Go through your stock
 
It’s hard to keep up with day-to-day operations, and throwing the demands of the holiday into the mix can stretch you and your employees thin. To make sure your stock, products, and schedule can serve demands now and during the holiday season (when business is sure to pick up), it’s time to review your current inventory. “It’s important to start on this well ahead of time, because when partnered with your sales forecast, it will allow you to make more informed decisions for the holiday season,” according to the Better Business Bureau.
 
Employ extra hands
 
If the holiday season is your business’ busiest time of year, you may need to hire extra help to get through. Getting the hiring process in motion well before the holiday hits can help you meet your staff goals with ease. “You need fully competent and confident employees when the first customer walks in,” according to GuidantFinancial.com.
 
Making sure you are fully staffed to account for longer operating hours or increased workload is not the only reason to hire more people. Your current staff may want to take time off during the holidays, too, and it’s important everyone is on the same page with time off. “If you don’t have a specific holiday vacation policy, now is the time to create one and communicate it to all your employees. Without a clear policy that’s communicated well in advance, feelings get hurt and morale suffers,” according to Haskins.
 
Decorate with holiday flair
 
Adding some festive holiday decorations can transform your space for your customers. Of course, decorating takes time, so be sure to budget for both time and expense. “For most people, shopping is also a form of entertainment — not just a necessity. So make your establishment as festive and engaging as possible. Play holiday music and, perhaps, have apple cider available,” according to Rhonda Abrams, writer for USAToday.com. Even if your business isn’t a customer-facing enterprise, don’t shy away from decorations. It can help both you and your staff embrace the season!
 
With careful planning, a detailed marketing and sales plan, and clear communication between you and your staff, your business will be able to thrive this holiday season.