Just as fast as October appeared, the time to put away the spooky decorations has come. While you still have time to prepare for the holidays, there is no need to wait until the turkey has been cut to get in on the holiday marketing madness. Think about it—if you can plan thoughtfully ahead, you’ll be enjoying your Thanksgiving meal in a beautiful food-coma-bliss. Check out these five ways to get the first crack on holiday marketing leading up to Thanksgiving. 

1. Give a Gift of Thanks

Show your customers how much they mean to you by sending them a small gift of gratitude. This could be as simple as a note or more elaborate like a box of goodies. It’s nice for your customers to be reminded of how much you care, and it will help keep your business top of mind as your customers go into their holiday shopping. Plus, it’s simply a nice gesture to let your valued customers know how much they mean to you. Make sure to include a heartfelt note of thanks!

2. Offer a Pre-Black Friday Sale

Why wait until Black Friday to compete for deals when you could host a sale early? Spread the word that you can’t wait any longer to give your appreciation for your loyal customers, or even new clients. Hosting a sale early means you have fewer businesses to compete with and more recognition before the holidays. 

Remember, just because you host a sale before Black Friday doesn’t mean you can’t get in on the after-Thanksgiving sale too. The sky’s the limit. This will simply give your business a head start.

3. Send Out an Email Marketing Campaign

Small businesses need help this year now more than ever. Send out an email marketing campaign encouraging your customers to consider shopping local. Include a heartfelt note about your appreciation and thanks for their business. 

Most importantly, don’t forget a call to action. You could ask your customers to stop by to do business, shop online, schedule a service or consider a consultation. Whatever action you want your customers to take, make sure to include a bold button or colorful text in your email. Be clear in your message so that your customers know exactly what you’re asking.

4. Start a Social Media Campaign

‘Tis the season for sharing the love. Start a social media campaign by encouraging your followers to post their thanks or story using a hashtag you create. Your business could kick off the social media campaign by posting your own message and encouraging others to take part. Don’t forget to challenge others to participate by tagging them and asking that they mention your business. If you’re willing, consider giving out a prize to the person with the most likes or comments on their story. This is a great way to entice your followers to participate. 

5. Donate to a Local Cause

People want to do business with businesses that care. Take November as a time for your company to make a donation to a cause that is near and dear to your heart. Don’t be afraid to let your customers and potential customers know about the cause that’s special to your company. You may end up doing business with a customer who shares your love for that same cause.

Go ahead—pick your favorite marketing strategy (or strategies!) and get in on the marketing trends before the holiday season begins. Consider this your reminder to skip the procrastination. Whatever you do, make sure your customers know how much they mean to you. After all, 2020 has been a hard year on us all!