Recently I've noticed an inundation of specials, offers, and exclusive membership clubs to save money. My in box every morning is sifted through as I am careful not to delete or miss an important email. I've also noticed silly advertising from television ads offering such specials as "free measuring" from a carpet company. Seriously? Isn't that part of getting an estimate? And 5% off. Even 10? Tax is more if you live in Chicago. That's not a really great deal. And then I read this blog posting by Seth Godin. Short. Brilliant. And priceless. As you send out your holiday wishes or special offers, the key is to get noticed. But in a good way. And remember: You get what you pay for. If something seems to go to be true, it probably is. And you don't want your clients thinking that way about you.
Discounts
Everyone is giving them. But if you say for a limited time, make it a limited time. Which means there should be a sense of urgency. Like Groupon, which has a time limit as well as a limited amount of product available. So if you want to keep that urgency, don't send out the same promotion every other day. You devalue it.
Exclusive memberships
I admit I've signed up to a few of these. Sometimes because you needed to in order to find out what the promotion was for. But think twice about who you're signing up with. If you find that you don't need $750.00 shoes marked down to half (which by the way is still $375.00) then remove yourself from the list. You'll thank yourself. Because it's a waste of time shopping for things you can't buy.
Holidays can be tough
Not everyone likes this time of year. Or chooses to celebrate the same way. So when you do a holiday card, know who it's going to. By that I mean you may want to rethink "Merry Christmas" for the front of your business holiday card. Personal is fine, but I suggest keeping politics and religion out of your messaging. And photos of people drinking while you're at it.
Take a break
Not just from working, but thinking that everything has to be done during this time. Sent out a new year's card. By then things will start to quiet down and you might even get noticed.
Speaking of cards
There are a lot of options out there. From ecards, to newsletters. Electronic and print. Choose what works for your company. What makes the most sense from an economical point as well as a personal and socially conscious direction. It's all a reflection on your business.
Enjoy this season. However you choose to spend it. From winter and construction design.
