Do Businesses Even Send Holiday Cards Anymore?

They should. Not E-cards, by the way.  Real, honest to goodness paper cards.  In envelopes.  With stamps.  That are delivered by the mail carrier. Why?

The simple reason is because people like to get things. People especially like to get things in the mail that aren’t bills.  Think about it.  If your mail consisted of ten invoices and a greeting card, which would you open first?  The greeting card, naturally.  Who wouldn’t choose a little bit of happy when it’s delivered to their door?

Why a ‘snail mail’ greeting over email?

In addition to giving someone a little lift, there are other reasons to avoid using email for all communication.  Consider how many emails the average person gets in one day.  Now think about how many times you check your junk folder to make sure you didn’t miss something important.  Do you want to spend your time writing a thank you, or a seasonal greeting to a client only to have it vanish into cyberspace?

 Even if your email is read, there’s a pretty good shot it’s going to be deleted immediately.  Have you ever seen anyone print out their email and place them on the mantel for everyone to see? 

I haven’t either. It’s simple.  People keep real cards longer.

How many emails do you delete each day without even reading them?  If your clients think your email is an advertisement, they might overlook it entirely.

Sending your customers a holiday greeting, a thank you card, or a birthday card lets them know you appreciate them enough to take the time to say so.  People feel special when they receive a card addressed to them instead of an email addressed to everyone whose name ends in .com. People who feel valued are going to remember who values them. 

Sending an actual card allows you to send other things as well.  Insert a calendar in the envelope and make sure your business is remembered all year long.  Include a coupon for a discount on your product if used within a certain timeframe.  There’s no rule that says you can’t, especially since you’re specifically thanking your customer base. 

It’s simple and direct.  Thank them for doing business with you and give them an incentive to keep the relationship going.

Take the time to send your customers a holiday or greeting card.  They’ll appreciate it and in the long run, so will you.

Who Needs a QR Code Anyway?

Everyone.  Why?  With the amount of people carrying smart phones, and using them to access everything from Amazon to Zappos, it’s time to take advantage of QR technology to drive business your way. QR codes give instant access to the information you want people to have.  No waiting for an email, fax or phone call, QR is all about instant gratification.  QR can also increase your business by linking to coupons, discounts and special offers. The potential for growth is fantastic.

What's a QR Code...and what can I do with it?

A QR code (short for Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional code that is readable by QR readers and smart phones.  It looks kind of like someone took an old fashioned bar code and shook it up.  Originally used as a way to track inventory, the QR code is now used just about everywhere.  It’s not hard to find a way to utilize these little guys in your business.

• Link your code to your Facebook/Twitter pages to increase your social media presence. A QR code will get you more ‘likes’ and ‘follows’ because it will be easier for people to find you.
• Put a QR on your front door to provide your customers with an instant coupon.  Because QR codes are so versatile, it is easy to change offers frequently, which increases traffic to your store.
• In real estate, add a code to a ‘For Sale’ sign, providing quick contact information for any interested buyers or a slide show of the property.  Why risk losing a potential sale because they drive by and run across another property with more information available?
• A QR code on a table tent can increase traffic by providing information of upcoming events, specials, drink menus, etc.  Offer a free appetizer or a discount on a second dinner on specific days to increase business.
• Have a ‘contest’.  Have two or three QR codes that are different from the rest, offering deeper discounts to those who scan them.  The code can link a customer directly to your mobile site, allowing them to shop and apply the discount immediately.
• Link a QR code to a video, showcasing your business or product.  Give your potential and existing customers instant access to information and new products, engaging them immediately.
• On your business card, have a QR linked directly to your phone so calls are immediate, or provide a map directing customers to your location.  
• A code directly on a product label can provide a link to more information or reviews for those interested.
• Put a QR code on your promotional items.  Provide your clients with information about your company, your contact information or special offers.

The potential for QR codes is really limitless.  Be sure that wherever your QR code takes those who scan it, that the page is optimized for mobile use.  Use your imagination and find a way to bring this technology into your business.