How to prepare your online store for the Christmas Sales


Get MORE from your Online Shop this ChristmasWe're almost at the end of August and December is still 4 months away. You've got plenty of time to get your online store ready for the Christmas sales right?

Think again!

In 2014, Google Trends showed people starting to search for 'christmas gifts' as early as September.

And just as you would prepare your home, in advance, to welcome family and friends when they visit, so too should you be preparing your online store to welcome your Christmas visitors.

So, what do you need to do?

Start now!


Start by working through the following checklist to get MORE from your online store this year.

Marketing

  • Decide on your target keywords.
  • Plan your Christmas marketing strategy - get creative!
  • Think about promotions, blog posts, email marketing, landing pages, social media.
  • Promote special Christmas bonus redemption codes with each target having a specific code (so you can track what promotions are working) eg Facebook promotion #FBChristmas, Instagram promotion #IGChristmas
 

Website

  • Consider adding a navigation tab titled 'Christmas'.
  • Ensure 'Last-delivery' dates are prominently displayed on relevant pages.
  • Check that your Online store is secure: SSL Certificate is current and that there are no issues with your payment gateways.
  • You have a Returns Policy is displayed on your website.
  • Key pages of your Website are mobile friendly.
  • Your contact details can be easily found from every page.
  • Make use of advertising boxes on your home page to display Christmas Specials.
  • Review your About Us page - people like to know who they're dealing with. Tell your unique story!
 

Products/Services

  • Clear out all your products that are no longer available.
  • Check that you have up-to-date photos and new stock information from your suppliers.
  • Check when your suppliers 'last-delivery' date is.
  • Enhance your product descriptions - show dimensions, accurate descriptions, product reviews, client testimonials.
  • Consider cross-selling or up-selling - suggest products that compliment other products.
  • Provide clear photos of your products from different angles.
  • Consider offering free Christmas cards and gift wrapping or free freight on items that can be shipped quite easily or cheaply.
  • Consider having themed product categories - gifts for her, gifts for him, gifts for kids, gifts under $50.
  • Display availability of products on each product page to avoid disappointment at the checkout and to create a sense of urgency.
 

Search Engine Optimisation

  • Optimise your Meta Titles.
  • Optimise your Meta Descriptions.
  • Refresh/update the content on your website.
  • Include the word 'Christmas' in your meta tags and content on your pages. Keep in mind your website visitor is a person.

Have you started preparing your online store for the Christmas sales?