I have already completed the bulk of my holiday shopping. That’s not to pat myself on the back – I’m sure to leave wrapping until the very last minute. Instead, it’s a testament to the fact that the holiday season seems to start earlier and earlier each year. With Christmas music playing as soon as Halloween is over and Christmas displays going up in some stores as early as September(!), people are starting their holiday shopping earlier too.

The good news is they’re probably spending more, too. When you spread “the holidays” over so many months, it becomes much easier for people to buy something, set it aside and then decide to add to the gift a few months later.

However, if you don’t have a holiday marketing plan together yet, you don’t have much time to wait. Here are the most immediate steps to take to maximize the holiday season you have left.

4 Things to Do Right NOW for your Holiday Marketing

1. Decide on Specials Everyone loves a door buster. Having a few amazing sales can help get people in the door and looking at all the amazing things you have to offer. Start your holiday planning by deciding which products or services make the best specials and go from there.
2. Determine Ad Budget If you want to make a high impact this holiday season, you’ll need to do some advertising. Whether it’s through Google AdWords, Facebook ads or traditional placements like TV and radio, you need to know how much you can afford to spend. Ultimately, you shouldn’t be advertising somewhere just because you always advertise there. Make sure you choose the ad platform(s) that will reach the most potential customers for the best rate.
3. Use Your Newsletter If you have a newsletter, now is the time to use it. Your newsletter list is typically comprised of people who are already interested in your product. They’re likely to want to support you while doing their holiday shopping. Extra bonus points if you include a limited edition product in your newsletter just for them.
4. Remember the Reason for the Season There’s more to the holidays than just sales. Sometimes it’s about giving back (customers love businesses with a conscience, BTW) (Shout out to Amerie!) and sometimes it’s about letting your employees spend time with their families. There’s a reason REI’s Go Outside campaign is doing so well – people like to remember that the holidays aren’t just about spending money.

There’s still plenty of time to get people to purchase your products this holiday season. Make sure that you think things through from your customers’ – and employees’ – perspective. May your days be merry and bright.