There are probably many people who contribute to the continued success of your small business. The Thanksgiving season is the perfect time to let these customers, business partners and staff members know how much you appreciate their support. Here are a few ideas on how you can give thanks during November.
Gift for a gift
Get everyone in the holiday spirit by hosting a food drive for the community food pantry. A charitable drive is a great way to boost your brand’s reputation and encourage the community to give back during the holiday season.
“Thanksgiving is a perfect time for marketers to exhibit the human side of a brand,” Frank Riolo, manager of Corporate Communications, told Predictable Profits.
Encourage your customers, employees and partners to bring in nonperishable food items, and in return, give them a coupon or promotional item. Your gift to people who donate can be something simple like a discount the next time they come in or a piece of branded merchandise. Some good options are the Byers’ Choice Home Sweet Home decorations, Mr. Christmas Porcelain Ornaments or Customized Football Stress Relievers.
Social media giveaways
Another way you can give thanks to your supporters is by holding holiday-themed giveaways on social media. Your followers will love the opportunity to win a small gift through Facebook or Twitter. Online PR Media recommended hosting a photo contest with a Thanksgiving theme, such as “What are you thankful for?” Ask your fans to share a picture of what they’re grateful for this holiday season, and have promotional products to hand out to the best entries. A Vansport Custom Embroidered Performance Pullover is a great gift option as the cold winter weather sets in. Another choice is to put together a gift basket with your top-selling company products for the winner.
Holiday cards
If your company’s marketing budget is tight, you can always use holiday cards to give thanks to your patrons and associates. A high-quality note, like the Thanksgiving Modern Leaves Personalized Cards, is a heartfelt and affordable way to wish your supporters happy holidays. It also gives your company a jump on the competition.
“We like to send Thanksgiving cards to beat the holiday card rush, be a little unique and to show-off our graphic design and print abilities,” Ed McMasters, director of marketing at the Flottman Company, told Predictable Profits. “[It’s] something all small businesses can do to raise their notoriety, familiarity and brand image.”
Holiday cards from Myron can be customized with a greeting, personal message, your business logo and high-quality envelopes. For a personal touch, sign each card and have your employees do the same. Your customers will be impressed with the gesture and have your company in mind as the big shopping season starts.
Complementary feast
Great food and desserts are certainly one of the most anticipated parts of Thanksgiving celebrations. Show your appreciation for your staff and customers by offering some great holiday treats in store. You can order pies or pastries from a local bakery, or host an after-hours celebration. Keeping your store open late and offering free food and drinks is a great way to encourage shoppers to stop by after work. You can decorate with festive items, like pumpkins, hay bales and fresh flowers. Serve hot apple cider, pumpkin desserts and other Thanksgiving favorites to celebrate the season. For a bit of added marketing, use the event to spread the word about any upcoming promotions you have planned for Black Friday or Small Business Saturday.