How To Use Holiday Marketing to Build Long-Term Relationships
Holiday marketing is all about creating a memorable experience, but what happens when the decorations come down? The way you engage with your audience after the holidays can transform one-time buyers into lifelong supporters.
Here’s how to keep the magic alive long after the season ends:
1. Say More Than “Thank You”
The post-holiday period is perfect for expressing genuine gratitude. Send personalized thank-you notes or emails, reflecting on the role your customers played in your success. A heartfelt message can make them feel seen and appreciated. I purchased some bath bombs as a gift for my family this year, and there was a lovely hand-written note thanking me for supporting her small business. It made me feel just a little warmer knowing that my purchase was appreciated!
2. Ask for Feedback
Engage your holiday customers by asking for their input. Did they enjoy your product or service? What could you improve? Surveys, follow-up emails, or social media polls show you value their opinions, and the feedback can help you plan better campaigns in the future.
3. Offer Exclusive Post-Holiday Perks
Give customers a reason to return with exclusive deals or sneak peeks of new products. Offering “New Year Rewards” or loyalty programs can turn the holiday buzz into ongoing engagement.
4. Keep the Conversation Going
Follow up with your audience by sharing valuable, relevant content. This could be:
Consistency in communication keeps you top-of-mind without being overly promotional.
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5. Turn Buyers into Advocates
Holiday customers can be powerful brand advocates. Encourage them to share their experiences through reviews, testimonials, or social media shoutouts. Consider creating a referral program to reward them for bringing in new business.
6. Use Data to Build Relationships
The holidays are a treasure trove of customer data. Analyze purchase trends and engagement patterns to segment your audience. Then, tailor your post-holiday messaging to their interests, whether it’s exclusive offers, personalized product recommendations, or curated content.
7. Set the Tone for the New Year
Transition your messaging from holiday cheer to fresh starts. Highlight your plans for the year ahead, from new product launches to community initiatives. Share your goals and invite your audience to be part of the journey.
The Long Game
Holiday marketing is the beginning, not the end, of the relationship. By staying connected, showing gratitude, and continuing to deliver value, you’ll turn seasonal shoppers into loyal customers who stick with you year-round.
What’s your favorite way to keep the post-holiday momentum going? Let’s brainstorm in the comments.
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Digital: Insights & Strategies is created by Lori J. Highby, the CEO & Founder of Keystone Click.
Keystone Click is a strategic digital marketing agency focused on helping their clients build brand awareness and generate leads online. This is done by first conducting research to help their clients better understand their customers. Once the data and insights are collected, a strategic marketing plan is created and implemented that helps their clients achieve their goals.
President & Chief Revenue Officer @ IES Women in Sales Leadership (WISL) | Board President | Speaker | Business Development Strategist | Mentor | Sales Advisor | Helping Companies Elevate More Women into Sales Leadership
3wAwesome strategies, Lori Highby!
I Run the Most Important B2B Sales Leadership Organization in the World ✔ Host, Sales Game Changers Podcast ✔ “Women in Sales” Ally ✔ Author of “Insights for Sales Game Changers" 💚 Lyme Disease Expert and Advocate 👍
3wIt's always a goal to get those loyal fans.
AI Integration | Marketing Agility | AI Thought Leadership | Global Speaking
3wLori, turning those holiday shoppers into loyal fans is key. Your strategies make it feel totally doable. Thank you!