Sales-Boosting Ideas to Avoid a Summer Slump
“Success is the ability to go from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm.”
Zig Ziglar
Many businesses experience a dip in sales during the summer months. Some studies show that sales may drop as much as 30% between May and August, and then rebound in the fall. It can be disheartening to face lower revenues, but sales leaders and small-business owners can try a few tricks to get back on track during the summer.
In this issue of Promotional Consultant Today, we share tips from Los Angeles-based writer, April Maguire, on how to jumpstart sales when things are slow.
Generate excitement on social media
A social media contest can be a great way to engage prospects, increase page views and generate overall goodwill, according to Maguire. Her expert tip? Tie in the season while keeping it relevant to your business.
Don’t drop prices
When you want to drum up sales, you may be tempted to offer discounts. However, this means less profit in an already dry season. Instead, Maguire recommends enticing prospects to buy by boosting the perceived value of your products and services.
Unveil something new
Many small businesses wait until fall to release new products, Maguire says, but if you’re looking to overcome the summer slump, don’t wait to roll out a new product or offering. With summer being a naturally slower season for sales, you can introduce something with a smaller audience and see what kind of reaction you get.
Stay active in clients’ and prospects’ inboxes
You can curtail a summer sales slump by staying visible through email. Let your audience know about exciting products, planned events and any summertime offers, Maguire says. And when you make a new contact, always get their email address so you can add them to your list and stay in contact throughout the year.
Collaborate with other companies
When you team up with another business, you both can potentially benefit with increased sales. Consider giving out co-branded promotional products to get in front of new audiences.
Stay upbeat
Whether you’re a sales leader or you own your business, remember that you set the tone for your team. It’s important to stay optimistic so that your team members adopt that same attitude when working with prospects and clients.
Dry spells tend to happen in the summer, but by applying some of the tips above, you can help your team break out of the summer doldrums. Just like the weather outside, keep your attitude sunny — brighter days are ahead.
Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: April Maguire is the founder of April Maguire Ink. She creates, manages and edits a variety of content for diverse clients.
