Did somebody say it’s summer? Although the calendar still says spring, now is the time to get ready for summer sales. It’s almost time to fire up the grill, grab your friends, charge up or gas up the car, and get ready for some summer fun because there is no fun like summertime fun.
Why do we love summer so much? Well, it’s the time of year when the days are longer, which means there are more hours to make memories that last a lifetime. And when you’re in sales, the longer, warmer days mean more opportunities not just to meet your sales quotas but to exceed them. It’s not just the sales aspect of summer that we like; it’s the opportunity to make connections and memories with our customers. In business, the summertime is an opportunity to introduce your brand to so many more people because the summer is when more customers travel, which means more brand exposure to current and prospective customers both near and far.
In 2024, Americans dropped over $900 billion on fun-in-the-sun trips. And even with the economy being a bit unpredictable, 70% of folks plan to take a vacation this year. That means your business has the potential to reach those vacation customers and local customers. Considering that some industries are slow during the summer, heating your sales strategy is a way to get over the summer slump and maximize the unique sales opportunities the summer brings.
The summer presents a unique opportunity for businesses because of the energy. The sunshine and the warm weather induce happiness, and more sun exposure is also good for the body. Vitamin D, or “sunshine vitamin,” is energizing, which could lead to more fun and more sales. The electric energy of the summertime is the boost many businesses use to connect with their customers and keep their sales associates optimistic. Brands that understand how to utilize this heat wave into a sales wave understand these important sales tips:
1. Create a fun shopping experience
In the summer months, everyone wants to be outside where all the fun is, even your sales associates. During the time when your customers are in your store, make sure they feel like they haven’t missed out on any of the fun outside because it’s just as fun inside. Play upbeat music, and involve your sales team by playing games or wearing festive clothing.
2. Offer summer-related discounts
If your brand offers summer or seasonal items, for the sake of your inventory, consider offering discounts on items you want to ensure you sell out of to make room for other seasons’ items. Offering seasonal discounts is a way to drive traffic to your store while not devaluing your product.
3. Maintain the connection
So many customers are traveling, and some will travel again to the same destination and patronize your store. Make sure to find ways to maintain your connection with them throughout the year. Remember their name or something specific about their travel plans. Ask if this is a destination they visit often. This way, when they return, you can suggest they visit your store again next summer.
4. Take your business outside
You want to be where the people are! If your business has a sidewalk, set up shop there. Play music and have signs that point to your store. Consider a mobile cart for convenience and brand awareness if you sell food. Consider ways to take your business outside where the sunshine is in the summer.
5. Be social
While sitting on your computer when we’ve just told you to get outside may seem counterintuitive, summer is still a great time to be more active on your social media accounts. Go live or include your teams or customers. In addition, meet your customers where they are outside and highlight them and your brand on your social media.
Do what you can to connect sales, digital, and customer service to make the most of this fun and memorable time of year. Summer is unlike any other season. School is out, and there are so many opportunities to make great sales and fond memories. Don’t just think out of the box; think bright, like the summer sun. Shine a light on your sales strategy that incorporates your need to meet your goals and heats up your brand reputation and customer connection.