5 marketing ideas for Thanksgiving you can still implement in time for the weekend

This year has had its fair share of challenges, from toilet paper shortages across the nation to lockdowns and school closures. Businesses have pivoted their operations to allow their employees to work from home, and sales have shifted. While some industries have experienced unexpected booms (hello at-home gym equipment), others have struggled to stay afloat. No matter how the pandemic has affected your business, there is still one time of year where sales soar like none other: The holiday season. ‍

Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest shopping seasons in the US. It includes Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday, all of which provide the opportunity for significant sales. So, if you’re not thinking of pumping up your Thanksgiving marketing campaigns, you’ll miss out on growth and sales opportunities.

Here are some marketing ideas for Thanksgiving to boost your sales this holiday season:

Get ahead

One of the essential parts of your marketing strategy this year should be timing. If you haven’t started marketing for the holidays, it’s time to get to work! According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), 40% of consumers begin their holiday shopping before Halloween, but don’t worry, you can still get in on the action.

Most brick and mortar retailers have already started their “Black Friday” deals, so you should consider offering your own pre-Thanksgiving deals that are in-line with Black Friday discounts. Try offering free-shipping, BOGO (buy one get one) sales, or other special discounts to get ahead of the curve. If you are a service-based small business, think about advertising a “special gift” with services to incentivize your clients. 

Practice gratitude

This year has been challenging for small businesses so take the opportunity to give a big “Thank you!” to your customers, partners, and suppliers. Craft a “thank you” campaign across your email, web, and social channels to bring the message home. Use phrases like:

We are so thankful for your continued business!
Thank you for helping us continue to do what we love!
We couldn’t have made it to where we are today if not for your support!‍

This message tugs at the heartstrings and also keeps your brand top of mind.

Special deals

The perfect list of marketing ideas for Thanksgiving would not be complete without special deals. Consider advertising special sales that you don’t offer the rest of the year. Utilize your social media channels as well as your email list to push the message out to your customers.

If you can, try offering different deals for each of the significant holiday segments. For example, offer 50% off certain products on Balck Friday, a free surprise gift with purchase on Cyber Monday, or a chance to win a gift card on Small Business Saturday. Keep the deals unique to incentivize customers to shop with you on each of these three days. 

Have a little fun 

2020 has been a gloomy year so try keeping your marketing messages light and fun. Put a humorous twist on the holidays by hosting a social media contest that is relevant to your business. Consider having customers share their “craziest holiday memory” or “ugliest Christmas sweater” for a chance to win something from your company. This will boost engagement and make your customers smile!

Video is king 

If you haven’t already jumped on the video bandwagon, Thanksgiving is the perfect time to start. 

Video can be a great addition to your social media posts as 72% of customers would rather learn about a product or service via video, according to a report by video marketing company Wyzowl. Try filming your product or service in action, advertise a special sale, or share an uplifting message with your customers.

Thanksgiving weekend is right around the corner, so now is the time to get to work implementing these strategies!