Creating word of mouth and inspiring customer traffic are essential to a sale’s success. Traditional in-store sales and online sales have a lot of similarities. Both require marketing, social media and a prepared staff. However, there are a few things you can do to ensure your online sale goes smoothly and improve results.
Discover five ways to improve online marketing for college bookstores
- Host a presale
Presales can be a great way to build up sales and enthusiasm for the day of the actual sale. Online presale events allow customers to take advantage of the discounted price at the time that is most convenient for them. But why host a presale and not just extend the length of your sale event?
There are a couple good reasons why your store might favor the presale event. Some vendors have stringent sale restrictions, especially with technology. A presale will let you start gathering sales and answering questions before the sale starts. That way when the day of the sale arrives, you have already created buzz and sold merchandise. Another reason why you might favor the presale event is that it helps inspire the fear of missing out. A longer sale is less exciting than knowing the sale prices are only available for a short window of time or the store has a limited supply of the merchandise.
- Make it easy to participate
Don’t overcomplicate your online sale. Customers shouldn’t have to follow you on a specific social media channel or sign up for something to get the discount. That extra step can cost you sales. Make it simple to identify the discounted merchandise and purchase it on your site or through all the social media channels run by your store.
Include sale links in any email promotions or text messages your store sends out. This will give customers quick and easy access to the sale event. As you plan the event, think about more ways you can eliminate obstacles that could stand between customers and making a purchase.
- Make your promotions mobile friendly
If you have an online sale, you need to make sure your store website has a responsive web design. Customers may not visit your website from their laptop. In fact, it is more likely they will use their cell phone or tablet to browse your online sale selection. A responsive web design will improve that experience and make sure your website shows at its best on any browsing device.
- Offer a variety of delivery options
The more options your store gives customers, the more likely they are to feel comfortable making a purchase with your store. Offer options like direct shipping, curbside pickup, in-store pickup, delivery and alternate campus pickup locations. This will help ensure that every customer finds the best option for them. - Include a call to action for follow up sales
With each order, you have an opportunity to encourage customers to shop with you again. Include an online promo code that customers can use to get free shipping or a discount on their next order. This will help create good will and might inspire more purchases.
