A Marketers Guide to Cyber Monday

Black Friday previously meant early, cold, crowded mornings just to get the best deals for holiday gifts. Now, you can stay cozy and warm in your house and shop from the comfort of your home on Cyber Monday. This shopping evolution, though, means marketers must be prepared for the influx of website traffic, Google searches, and eager buyers. According to ComScore, Cyber Monday resulted in $6 billion worth of sales. So what do you need to do to make sure your organization can capitalize on potential sales? Follow these simple tips:

1. Adweek found over 50% of Cyber Monday sales came from mobile devices last year. If your website is not mobile-friendly, you will want to overhaul and update ASAP!
2. To test readiness, run a mobile compatibility test with Google. Even if you believe your website and organization can handle an influx of mobile purchases, this site will put you at ease and help you recognize slow-loading pages.
3. Run a contest starting now to gain awareness for your Cyber sales and brand traction. Nothing spreads as quickly on social media than a desirable contest or giveaway.
4. Digital may seem like king, but holiday shopping isn’t strictly online. Some shoppers combine online and offline shopping with buy online, pick up in store options.
5. CyberMonday is not just in the US, so if you are a global brand, make sure you’re targeting your global audience.
6. Make sure your site loads in a timely manner by checking your site speed with Google’s developmental tools.
7. With the rise of conscious shoppers, consider matching sales to a humanitarian effort or create a product for a cause. ‘Tis the season for giving after all!
8. Consider partnering up with a different brand. Brand partnerships are huge during the holidays!
9. Offer something exclusive for the day, like a new color or offer!
10. Include gift wrapping or boxing for free or a minimal fee.
11. Create a holiday gift guide to help those shopping for difficult recipients and highlight different products.
12. Offer a free or reduced trial for software.
13. Create an exclusive deal for subscribers or members. Brand loyalty should never be underestimated in today’s competitive market.
14. And most importantly, start a drip campaign NOW! Your brand will have steep competition, so make sure you get in front of your target audience before the holiday.