In a string of “different” holiday seasons, 2022 is keeping pace with an unpredictable trend where it seems the only thing retailers can count on is continued change. Marked by record inflation, recession fears, global conflict, ongoing supply chain issues and a pandemic that won’t go away, shoppers are contending with many challenges and distractions.
With increased competition for limited goods and holiday dollars, savvy business owners must do everything they can to personalize the shopping experience and satisfy customer needs. And in terms of marketing, it’s more important than ever to tailor messaging and distribution specifically to your buyer personas for maximum benefit.
Omnichannel marketing can be the right tool for a challenging retail environment. It helps businesses bolster their messaging by creating a seamless, integrated customer experience that leverages multiple channels across each stage of the buyer’s journey. This shopping season, going omni can help you dominate the competition and set your brand apart.
Shopping and Research
Show them the code. Draw buyers to your website with targeted holiday direct mailers that include a QR code to special seasonal landing pages. You can also display codes on your in-store signage, as many shoppers continue researching online even from within physical stores. Kymera’s digital marketing experts can track your traffic and conversion rates and refine your strategy by split testing ads and sales messaging.
Get social. By leveraging ad spends on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and other social channels, you can quickly and effectively get the word out on your holiday offerings. Create entertaining and informative demos and a compelling brand narrative. If your budget allows, partner with an influencer (or micro-influencer) with a strong following in your demographic to gain online visibility fast.
Spread the news. Use an email newsletter with a link to your mobile app to promote holiday deals that cater to each of your consumer segments. For leads that show interest but abandon their shopping cart without making a purchase, retarget them with ads featuring a special discount or offer that encourages them to complete the sale.
Online and In-store Purchase
Keep shoppers in the loop. No one wants their holiday gift derailed due to a late delivery or unexpected out-of-stock notification. Keep your website updated with accurate delivery dates and current inventory. These days, it’s more important than ever to be as transparent as possible to keep customers loyal and happy.
Customer accommodation. Many people value their time as much as — or even more than — their checkbook, especially around the holidays. Shoppers appreciate choice and convenience. Consider adding a “buy online, pick up in store” option that checks both those boxes. Include coupons with these orders to incentivize additional in-store purchases.
Post-purchase
Take charge of reviews. Your omnichannel strategy shouldn’t stop once a purchase is completed. Turn satisfied customers into brand advocates with Kymera’s automated review management system. We’ll solicit reviews once a purchase is made, post positive comments and refer any issues needing resolution back to your attention so your service team can address them.
Reward loyal customers. Loyalty programs and special holiday offers can turn a one-time buyer into a repeat customer. Follow up online sales with targeted messaging about other items shoppers might like based on past purchases.
To the Holidays … and Beyond!
With a smart omnichannel strategy, you can target your prospects at each stage of the buyer’s journey from awareness, to consideration, to decision-making and brand advocacy. The omnichannel marketing experts at Kymera can help you every step of the way, giving you the right timing and tactics to help your holiday campaign supercharge sales for this must-win quarter.
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