Monday, December 14, 2009

Christmas Sales Strategies


Christmas is a time where "giving" and "spending" are one in the same, and if a present doesn't come with a serial number and price tag attached, it's not worth receiving.

That's why marketers hone in on this blessed holiday season and utilize any and every sales tactic they've got - even if it means stooping a little low!

Internet Marketing

In our technology-based society, it's no wonder marketers are advertising products and sales online, with artful and enticing displays telling shoppers they can save a dime by cutting travel costs and buying NOW on the internet. "All you have to do is type in a few numbers and the product's yours!" Unfortunately, convenience doesn't necessarily mean cost-efficient.

So, before falling for this skillful marketing tactic, check your savings account - and to make sure it's a credible website!

Appealing to the Sensitive Side

As we all know, Christmas is that time when everyone deserves a gift of appreciation and good cheer from you - at the expense of your bank account.

It's important to remember that as great (or not so great) of a person as you are, there are only certain things you can afford, and nobody really needs that new plasma screen T.V. A simple homemade gift can do the trick at 1/10 the cost.

Don't fall for advertiser's sensitive edge to their ads. In our struggling economic society, let us not forget that age-old expression: "It's the thought that counts!"

Recession Means Competition

Since most stores are looking to suffice their yearly budgets with this year's Christmas season profits, each store will likely be competing intensely for a few bucks out of your wallet - this means competitive prices and great deals.

Don't let local store punch lines, such as "Lowest price around" and "Get it while you still can" to entice an impulse buy; there's plenty of items to go around and low prices at almost every store. Do a little backround checking before making your final decision on any product. Every dollar adds up, and with cautionary steps toward each purchase you will have enough money left over by the time you're done to go back for a second round!

Ultimately, Christmas is a time for giving (yes, it's a time for spending too). Let's all be on-the-lookout for those tricky marketing tricks, methodically approach any and every purchase, and guaranteed, YOU will wind up const-efficient and carefree.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

It's the Season for Spending



Christmas season is officially here! It's time for the "jingle bell rock" ring loudly in every mall around the United States as shopper hecticly scramble about looking for the perfect gift for their co-workers, friends, and loved ones; sales are up! Yet, the economic recession is looking to have a grave effect on this years merchandise sales and, furthermore, may put a number of stores banking on thier skyrocketing Christmas sales out-of-business. Yikes!

I recently spoke with a sales clerk at Macy's, asking what level of "hustle and bustle" the stores are seeing this year...her response was "minimal." That's why this year it's important to look for the HUGE markdowns that will more than likely take place to amplify sales. Personally, I am not an extremely thrifty shopper, but am looking to improve my tactics for this Christmas season's shopping frenzy. Thrift stores? Yes. Second-hand shops? Definately. That half-price purse rack in the corner of the "women's accessory" section? Count me in!

Shopping can still be exciting, and gifting can still be a favorite pastime with friends and family. It looks like marketers are simply going to have to be on top of their marketing game! Start looking through those magazines and cupon books everyone :)