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Want to keep venue sales leads interested over the holidays? Consider these easy-to-implement tips.
With the festive season in full swing, venue sales staff face a unique challenge: keeping leads interested when many potential clients are winding down for the holidays. The period between November and January can be both a boon and a bane for venue managers. While it’s a prime time for festive events, it's also when many businesses put off planning for the next year.
Here’s how to keep venue leads engaged and excited about booking with you, even when holiday distractions are looming.
1. Create Festive Marketing Campaigns |
2. Personalise Your Communication |
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The festive season is all about joy, celebration, and togetherness. Leverage these themes in your marketing campaigns to appeal to your leads’ emotions. Create holiday-themed email newsletters, social media posts, and special promotions. Use festive imagery and cheerful language to highlight how your venue can be the perfect setting for holiday parties, New Year celebrations, or large family get-togethers. Pro Tip: Offer limited-time festive discounts or bundled packages for events booked during the holiday season. |
In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, personalised communication can keep your venue front of mind. Instead of generic emails, take the time to tailor messages to each lead. Reference past interactions, acknowledge specific needs, and wish them happy holidays. Example: “Hi [Lead’s Name]. I remember you mentioned looking for a venue for your company’s annual gala in the new year. We have a few dates left in March and in the spirit of the festive season, I’ve put together some packages that might interest you…” |
3. Host a Holiday Open House |
4. Use Your Social Assets |
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Invite leads to experience your venue firsthand by hosting a holiday open house. This allows potential clients to see your space decked out for the festive season, taste your catering options, and meet your event staff. An open house creates a memorable experience and allows you to showcase your venue's ambience and hospitality. Pro Tip: Partner with local vendors to provide live entertainment, holiday treats, and giveaways. This not only enhances the experience for guests but builds valuable relationships with other businesses. |
People are more likely to trust recommendations and reviews from others, and the holiday season often provides extra time to research and read them. Highlight testimonials from past clients who have held successful holiday events at your venue. Share photos and videos on your social media channels and website. Seeing happy customers enjoying your venue can be a powerful motivator for new leads. |
5. Stay Active on Socials |
6. Send Thoughtful Holiday Greetings |
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The festive season sees a spike in social media activity as people share their holiday experiences. Stay active on your social media channels by posting regularly, engaging with your audience, and using festive hashtags. Share behind-the-scenes looks at how your venue is preparing for the holidays, showcase your decorations, and highlight any special events you’re hosting. Pro Tip: Run social media contests or giveaways. For example, ask your followers to share their best holiday memories for a chance to win a free venue tour or a discount on their next booking. |
Sending friendly holiday greetings is a simple yet effective way to stay top-of-mind with your venue leads. Whether it’s a beautifully designed holiday card, a festive email, or a small gift, thoughtful gestures show that you value your relationship with them. It's a chance to spread some holiday cheer and show your appreciation for their interest in your venue. Remember, it's the little things that can make a big difference in building lasting relationships Pro Tip: Incorporate a subtle call-to-action in your holiday greetings, such as a reminder of your upcoming open house or a special holiday offer. |
7. Be Responsive and Available |
8. Provide Value to Potential Clients |
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The holiday season can be a hectic time for everyone, and quick, responsive communication can set you apart from the competition. Ensure your team is available to answer enquiries promptly and provide the necessary information. If you’re one of the lucky venues experiencing an influx of leads, consider extending your hours or offering additional support during peak times. Pro Tip: Use automated email responses to acknowledge enquiries received outside of business hours, with a commitment to follow up promptly. |
Position yourself as an expert by sharing valuable content that helps venue leads with their holiday event planning. Create blog posts, downloadable guides, or video tutorials that offer tips on everything from festive décor ideas to holiday menu planning. Providing useful information establishes your venue as a trusted resource and keeps leads engaged. Example: “10 Tips for Planning the Perfect Holiday Party” – a blog post that includes practical advice and highlights how your venue can help bring their vision to life. |
Keep Your Venue Top of Mind, All Year Round
By embracing the holiday spirit in your marketing efforts, offering valuable resources, and maintaining excellent communication, you can turn the festive season into a fruitful period for your venue. Remember, it’s all about making your leads feel special and showing them how your venue can be the perfect backdrop for their future events. Happy holidays - and happy selling!
