This week’s polar vortex has consumers across the country hoping an old-fashioned white holiday season is in the works. But a new report from Deloitte indicates that it could very well be a green one, as optimism about the economy means shoppers plan to increase their spending efforts considerably this year.
According to Deloitte’s 29th annual holiday survey, total holiday spending will increase by 13 percent to an average of $1,299 per household in 2014. Consumers will spend more on gifts, clothing and holiday furnishings for the home as well as on entertainment and socialization. Spending on gifts alone will increase by 9 percent to $458 per person.
In light of such an enticing report, you’ll want to make sure that your business has the digital presence necessary to reach out and steer consumers toward your organization this holiday season. Take note of the fact that the Internet will be the top shopping venue for the second straight year, as about 45 percent of those surveyed indicate they plan to shop online over the next two months. Consumers shopping across online, mobile and store channels will spend 66 percent more on gifts than those who shop in stores only.
Here are some tips you can use to make sure your business fares well this holiday season:
Educate your consumers about data security: Thanks to a recent string of high profile consumer data breaches in the retail sector, digital security will be a differentiator this holiday season. About 36 percent of those surveyed said they are more likely to shop at a retailer who provides education about the security of their personal data. So make sure to educate consumers via blog posts and social content to reassure them that their personal information is secure. Furthermore, customer service representatives should be available around the clock to answer specific questions and ease concerns for shoppers.
Set up a dedicated customer service handle on Twitter: As you overhaul your social channels before the onset of the holiday season, consider setting up a specific account on Twitter dedicated solely to customer service. Research shows that 32 percent of top brands today have dedicated customer accounts on Twitter. By doing this, you will deflect negative attention away from your main account should it arise. You will also send the message that your brand is dedicated to keeping its customers happy. Setting up a dedicated customer service handle is an easy way to ensure that Tweets are quickly and efficiently addressed.
Create plenty of promotions: The Deloitte survey shows that nearly three-quarters of shoppers say they will be influenced by promotions or coupons over the next few months. Filling your blog or social content with promotions is a great way to increase regular readership, as it will keep consumers guessing about whether they will find a deal in your articles or videos. Setting up a social media contest is also a tried and true method of generating leads for your business.
Here at Content Boost, we want all of you to experience a plentiful and rewarding holiday shopping season. So instead of working overtime to produce the content you need, leave it to us! Click here to learn more about how our dedicated team of content experts can help your business bolster its online image.
