While holiday shopping activity kicked off earlier than ever this year, December will still see customers frantically rushing around (perhaps virtually, but rushing nonetheless). Estimates are that as much as $1 billion or more has yet to be spent on holiday gifts and festivities.

The procrastinators among us are furiously figuring out those final “gotta have” gifts for ourselves, as well as trying to decide what makes the “perfect gift” for each family member and friend. This year, when the pandemic has disrupted so many routines and threatens to limit in-person celebrations, that actual gift will get the spotlight and be the way we all show we care. (Not to add more pressure or anything… )

No worries. This is your cue to shine as a great gift resource. Beyond talking up any and all features and services you offer to help customers find gifts (from top gift lists and special shipping offers to gift cards and wrap services, curbside pickup, and live chat or in-store consultations), shout out your registry and Wish List as the perfect solution. Your Wish List is something to make some noise about, so don’t be shy about suggesting this tried-and-true shopping tool that will be a stress-buster for everyone. Think of it as a gift you give your customers.

Here’s why:

• A registrant can create a list in minutes and have a shareable, shoppable list of the gifts that will make them happy as they open each package. No more gifts that end up tucked away on a closet shelf or require a return that will be more complicated this year due to COVID guidelines.
• A gift giver can then save time and avoid unnecessary searching for products, knowing they’ve chosen a gift guaranteed to be opened with a smile. After all, no consumer wants to wander aimlessly (down store aisles or through web pages) trying to hit on that perfect gift.
• As the retailer, you’ll avoid stress as well. Suggest gifts that aren’t at risk of being unavailable because of supply chain issues that have challenged inventory replenishment. Even better, you’ll reap rewards when you experience fewer returns and more customer satisfaction.

Top 10: Your Last-Minute Holiday Registry Checklist

Also known as simple tips to help generate more energy around gifting.

1. Highlight Your Registry and Wish List: And do it everywhere you can. This is no time for subtlety, so go ahead, be bold! Posters, signage, and hangtags (for stores) and/or banners and “bursts” (on your website) are attention-grabbing reminders that your gifting service is ready and waiting.

2. Make Existing Marketing Efforts Work Harder: Add a mention to any marketing materials that are still in production. A dedicated tagline in your outgoing emails will work as well.

3. Spread the Joy: Don’t forget that word of mouth from you and your staff will be your best advertisement.

4. Solve Problems: Wish Lists are the number one remedy for holiday shopping anxiety. Make it a point to add your suggestions for great gifts you know will be in stock.

5. Be Festive: As you look for ways to add more holiday cheer in-store or on your website, include your registry materials as well. Start with some seasonal graphics and add helpful messaging that showcases a Holiday Wish List.

6. Be Visual: Pictures say it better than words and grab attention quickly. With attention spans shorter than ever during this most hectic time of year, let the right images tell your story.

7. Add a Cheery Touch: If possible, add a holiday greeting with gift purchases and watch (or imagine) faces light up.

8. Be Social: Customers crave opportunities to connect with friends and loved ones this season, so invite them to post on their social media and share their personal gift favorites, and ask them to tag you so you can join the conversation! Take it a step further and host a contest, with the winner given the chance to receive a gift from you off their Wish List.

9. Play It Forward: Follow up with a New Year’s greeting to all Wish List users and invite them to update their gift lists for birthdays and other celebrations in 2021.

10. Jingle Bells: Sit back and listen to the happy sound of sales rolling into your cash register.

The Gift That Will Keep on Giving

Happy customers are more likely to stay loyal and shop in the future. And many gift purchasers will become new customer prospects for you, so take advantage of their data in your Partner Dashboard and follow up with them in the new year. They won’t expect it, but if you recognize them and invite them to shop again for themselves and/or other gifting needs, you’re building a new customer relationship.

And with so many satisfied customers, you’ve set up your business for a strong start to 2021.

We Love Connecting with You

It’s wonderful to connect with many of you each week to talk about the specific needs of your business and how MyRegistry can support you. Feel free to contact us at marketingguru@myregistry.com to discuss marketing ideas for your unique registry business.

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