Imagine this: It’s the beginning of November, and you’re getting in the mood for Christmas. The air is crisp, the decorations are appearing in the stores, and everyone is getting in a festive mood. You’re sitting at home, cozy and warm, scrolling through your Instagram feed. And there it is: a post from your favourite local bakery that catches your eye. It’s a mouthwatering image of a freshly baked Christmas cake, accompanied by a heartwarming message about the joy of holiday traditions. You can almost taste the sweetness. And you want that cake! So, you pick up the phone to call, or you visit the bakery’s website and place your order.
This is the power of holiday social media marketing. When done right, it can create a lasting impression on your audience and drive sales. But with so much competition, how can you make your posts stand out?
The Holiday Hustle: Timing is Everything
Most people start the transition to Christmas after Remembrance Day. This means that you should start planning your content well in advance.
Think about creating engaging posts that highlight your holiday offerings, such as special flavours, discounts or festive decorations. Include holiday-themed images or videos to catch the attention of your audience. Consider running promotions or discounts, in addition to incorporating holiday-themed images or videos, to catch the attention of your audience. Careful planning and timing of your holiday social media marketing efforts can significantly impact your business during the holiday season.
Unlock Holiday Social Media Success with These Tips:
One important aspect of holiday social media success is staying consistent with your brand’s voice and aesthetic, as this helps to maintain a cohesive image for your business.
Engaging with your audience through social media activities like asking questions, running polls, and encouraging comments fosters a sense of community around your brand during the bustling holiday season.
Using popular holiday hashtags in your posts can boost visibility, reach a wider audience, and drive more traffic to your business.
Offering exclusive deals or discounts on social media during the holidays can create a sense of urgency among consumers and motivate them to make purchases from your business.
Sharing behind-the-scenes content on social media gives followers a unique look into how you prepare for the holidays, helping to humanize your brand and build trust with customers. Remember that quality content is key—don’t sacrifice quality for quantity when posting on social media platforms.
Is it Worth It? The Numbers Speak for Themselves
According to a survey conducted by Sprout Social Pulse in Q4 2024, 89% of shoppers believe that social media content from brands influences their holiday purchase decisions. 42% of consumers intend to use social media more this year than last year to find gifts, highlighting the importance of social media marketing in your holiday revenue strategy.
It’s clear that social media plays a crucial role in influencing consumer behaviour during the holiday season. With nearly 9 out of 10 shoppers admitting that brand content on social media affects their purchasing decisions, it’s more important than ever to have a strong presence on these platforms. Crafting high-quality content that resonates with your target audience allows you to connect effectively with customers and boost sales. Never underestimate the power of social media in boosting your holiday revenue—the numbers speak for themselves.
Need Help with Your Holiday Social Media Strategy?
At MYOB, we can help small business owners create engaging and effective social media content. From crafting compelling captions to designing eye-catching visuals, our experienced team can help make your holiday marketing a success. Our team can also share your engaging social media post any day and any time—even on a holiday!
Are you ready to deck the halls of your social media feed? Let’s chat! We’re ready to help you start planning your holiday social media campaign today!
Every year, Canadians come together to celebrate the backbone of our economy: small businesses. Small Business Week—a dedicated time to recognize the countless entrepreneurs who drive our communities—is a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and hard work of these unsung heroes.
In Canada, the small business sector is significant, with over 1.2 million small and medium-sized businesses and 749,000 entrepreneurs.
A Brief History of Small Business Week
For 45 years, the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) has arranged an annual entrepreneurship event called BDC Small Business Week. Over 10,000 entrepreneurs come together annually to network, learn, and celebrate Canada’s doers and visionaries.
This event serves as a platform for small business owners to share their experiences, learn from industry experts, and gain valuable insights to help grow their businesses. Small Business Week also highlights the importance of supporting local businesses and the positive impact they have on our economy. It is a time to celebrate the hard work and dedication of small business owners who play a vital role in driving innovation and creating jobs in communities across the country.
Why Small Business Week Matters
Small businesses play a vital role in Canada’s economic landscape. They create jobs, stimulate local economies, and foster innovation. From mom-and-pop shops to tech startups, small businesses are the engines that drive our communities forward.
Small Business Week is an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the contributions of these businesses to our economy. It is a time to shine a spotlight on the hard work and dedication of small business owners who often face unique challenges and obstacles in their journey to success. By supporting small businesses, we are not only investing in our local communities but also in the future of our country’s economy. It is important to show our appreciation for the innovation, creativity, and resilience that small businesses contribute, and Small Business Week provides the perfect platform to do so.
How Can We Support Each Other This Week?
Small Business Week is an excellent opportunity for us to come together and show our support for local businesses. Here are a few ways you can get involved:
Share posts on social media: Engage with other small business owners by liking, commenting, and sharing their content.
Shop local: We can put small businesses at the forefront of our minds as the holiday season approaches by buying gifts and/or gift certificates for family, employees, and friends.
Give referrals: Recommend local businesses to your friends, family, and colleagues. Online, we can give referrals by tagging small business owners in Facebook groups or connecting through email.
Leave reviews: Take time to share positive experiences about local small businesses online with a Google review or a review on Facebook.
These simple actions will help us support local entrepreneurs and increase awareness of small businesses in our community.
How MYOB Supports Small Businesses
As a small business ourselves, we understand the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. We’re committed to supporting our fellow business owners by offering bookkeeping, social media management, and website maintenance and design services. We believe that by building strong relationships with our clients, we can help them achieve their goals and grow their businesses.
Over to You
Small Business Week is a celebration of the incredible contributions that small businesses make to our communities. As we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern business landscape, it’s more important than ever to support and encourage these vital enterprises.
So, let’s come together to celebrate and show our appreciation for the entrepreneurs who are making a difference in our lives. How will you be supporting small businesses this week?
Imagine waking up one morning and finding your favourite news sources—the ones you’ve always relied on for daily updates—suddenly vanished from your Facebook and Instagram feeds. That’s exactly what happened to millions of Canadians when Meta, the parent company of these popular social media platforms, chose to block news content from its platforms, making it no longer viewable, in response to Canada’s Online News Act.
This decision has left many of us wondering, “Where do I go now for my news?” As small business owners, staying informed about current events is crucial for understanding your customers, adapting to market trends, and making informed decisions. So, how are Canadians adjusting to this new reality? Here are a few alternatives we’ve found.
The Rise of Direct Subscriptions and Newsletters
One of the most significant trends we’ve seen is a surge in subscriptions to traditional news outlets. Many Canadians are now opting to pay for direct access to news content, either through digital subscriptions or even physical newspapers. This shift has been a welcome change for established news organizations as they’ve experienced a renewed interest in their offerings.
This increase in direct subscriptions has also led to a rise in the popularity of e-newsletters as a way to receive curated news content. Many Canadians are finding value in receiving a daily or weekly newsletter that compiles the most important stories in one convenient format.
The Expanding Reach of Other Social Media Platforms
Beyond Facebook and Instagram, other social media platforms are also gaining popularity as news sources. Twitter, now rebranded as X, has long been a go-to platform for breaking news and real-time discussions. LinkedIn, while primarily focused on professional networking, is also emerging as a source of industry-specific news and insights. YouTube, with its vast array of content creators and channels, has also become a popular source of news and information for many people.
These platforms offer users the ability to curate their feeds and follow reputable sources, making it easier to filter out misinformation and stay up to date on current events. With the rise of algorithmic content curation, users can customize their news consumption like never before, tailoring their feeds to reflect their interests and priorities. As social media continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these platforms adapt to meet the changing needs and preferences of their users.
Sharing Screenshots
While Canadians are unable to share links to news outlets, many Canadians and news platforms have opted to share screenshots of headlines either outlining the bulk of the storyline or encouraging readers to find the article themselves. Some areas have even made Facebook groups with the sole purpose of distributing news in this format.
MYOB Helps Small Businesses Navigate the Changing Media Landscape
As a small business owner, navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media can be challenging. That’s where MYOB comes in. We can help you create engaging content, curate and manage newsletters, optimize your social media presence, and connect with your target audience. Understanding how your customers consume news is essential for tailoring your messaging to effectively reach and engage with them.
From creating engaging videos to sharing informative blog posts, we can help you stay ahead in the digital landscape and distinguish your brand in a competitive online environment. With our expertise and tools, you can navigate the changing media landscape with confidence and see real results in your business growth.
Over to You
The decision by Meta to block news content in Canada has undoubtedly had a significant impact on how Canadians find and view their news. While the initial shock may have subsided, the long-term consequences of this move remain to be seen. As small business owners, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt to these changes. By exploring alternative news sources, you can continue to thrive in the digital age.
So, the question is, how are you getting your news now? Are you relying on traditional news outlets and e-newsletters, or exploring other social media platforms? We’d love to hear from you.
Imagine yourself at a bustling cocktail party. There’s a mix of people: the life of the party, the quiet observer, the professional networker, and the social butterfly. Each person has a unique personality, and you’re drawn to some more than others.
Similarly, social media platforms have distinct personalities. Understanding these personalities can help you choose the right platforms for your business and effectively maximize your online presence. Like a cocktail party, knowing where your target audience spends time and adjusting your approach is essential.
Whether you want to connect with like-minded professionals on LinkedIn, showcase your creativity on Instagram, or engage in real-time conversations on X, there’s a platform that suits your business’s personality and goals. By choosing the right platforms, you can effectively reach and engage with your audience, ultimately leading to increased brand awareness and growth.
Now, let’s dive into the world of social media and explore the different types of “party guests” you might encounter.
YouTube: The Life of the Party
YouTube is like the life of the party. Always ready for a good time, it’s the place to go for entertainment, education, and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for hilarious cat videos or in-depth tutorials, YouTube has it all.
For businesses, YouTube can be a powerful tool for building brand awareness, driving traffic to your website, and generating leads. Consider creating how-to videos demonstrating industry tips, product demos highlighting your offerings, or behind-the-scenes content to captivate your audience.
Facebook: The Hostess with the Most-ess
Facebook is like the friendly host of the party. It’s where everyone knows everyone, and there’s always something going on. As a business, Facebook is a great platform for connecting with customers, building relationships, and promoting your products or services. There are also opportunities to connect with other businesses through networking Facebook groups and engagement, as well as get involved in your business’s neighbourhood Facebook page.
With its large user base and precise targeting, Facebook can help your business reach more people and increase conversion rates. Plus, it’s a great place to collect customer reviews and feedback.
X: The Social Butterfly
X is the ultimate social butterfly. Conversations on X can be fast-paced, unpredictable, and often quite entertaining. It’s a great place to stay up to date on current events, connect with like-minded people, and engage in real-time discussions.
For businesses, X is useful for customer service, connecting with influencers, and engaging in industry discussions.
LinkedIn: The Professional Networker
LinkedIn is like the sophisticated professional at the party. It’s a great place to connect with other professionals, build your network, and find job opportunities. As a business, LinkedIn can help you establish your brand as a thought leader, generate leads, and recruit top talent.
Instagram: The Trendsetter
Instagram is like the stylish guest at the party. Instagram focuses on visuals, creativity, and inspiration. For businesses, Instagram can help you display your products, show a brand aesthetic, and connect with a younger audience.
TikTok: The New Kid on the Block
TikTok is the newest kid on the block, and it’s quickly gaining popularity. Known for its short, catchy videos, TikTok is a great platform for entertainment, education, and inspiration.
It’s also a powerful tool for businesses to reach a younger audience and go viral. With its algorithm that prioritizes engagement, TikTok can help you create content that resonates with your target audience and drive results.
So, which platform is the best fit for your business?
Your choice depends on your brand’s personality, target audience, and goals. Knowing the distinct personalities of social media platforms helps you choose the ones that will help you connect with customers and achieve your business goals.
At MYOB, we offer personalized social media strategy consultations tailored to your business needs. Let us help you navigate the social media landscape effectively. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your social media efforts.
Now, it’s time to mingle! Which social media platform are you eager to connect with first?
Are newsletters still relevant in the age of social media? Absolutely! While platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become popular for quick updates, newsletters offer a unique advantage: direct communication with your audience.
With newsletters, small businesses have the opportunity to connect with their customers in a more personal way. Unlike social media posts that may easily be overlooked, newsletters are delivered directly to the recipient’s inbox, ensuring that your message is seen. This direct line of communication allows businesses to share more detailed information, exclusive promotions, and behind-the-scenes content that may not be suited for social media.
Newsletters can also help businesses build trust and loyalty with their audience by consistently providing valuable and relevant content. Now, let’s explore the pros and cons of newsletters and how they can benefit your small business.
Advantages of Newsletters
High Open Rates: Newsletters have an average open rate of around 35.6%, which is significantly higher than open rates for other marketing channels. This is because subscribers have chosen to receive your content.
Measurable Value: Newsletters offer valuable analytics that let you monitor metrics such as open rates, click-through rates, and unsubscribes. This data can help you refine your content strategy and measure the ROI of your newsletter efforts.
Cost-Effective: In comparison to other marketing channels, newsletters are relatively inexpensive to produce. The benefits of increased brand awareness, customer engagement, and lead generation more than justify that cost.
Targeted Reach: Newsletters allow for direct communication with your target audience. By segmenting your list based on characteristics like age, location, or interests, you can tailor your content to specific demographics or interests.
Link Building: Including links to your website in your newsletter can help improve your search engine rankings. By linking to relevant content, you can drive traffic to your site and increase engagement with your audience.
Shareability: Newsletters are easy to share. Subscribers can forward them to friends and colleagues, expanding your reach organically. And, when subscribers forward your newsletter to others, you are effectively expanding your reach at no cost. This can be a powerful way to grow your audience and increase brand awareness.
The Cons of Newsletters
Time-Consuming: Creating high-quality newsletter content can be time-consuming. You’ll need to plan, write, and design your content regularly.
Engagement Challenges: While newsletters have high open rates, they may not always lead to immediate action. It’s important to include a strong call to action to encourage subscribers to take the desired steps.
Deliverability Issues: Email providers may sometimes mark newsletters as spam, affecting their deliverability. To avoid this, follow best practices for email marketing, such as using a reputable email service provider and keeping your subscriber list scrubbed, accurate, and up-to-date.
How Newsletters Work
Newsletters typically involve the following steps:
Subscriber Acquisition: Gather email addresses from your website, social media, or in-person events like conferences or networking meetings. Be sure you are abiding by CASL laws while compiling your list! NOTE: CASL requires businesses to have either express consent (a subscriber has agreed verbally or in writing to receive your commercial emails) or implied consent which may exist if there is an existing business relationship (however, be aware there are often time-limits and specific circumstances tied to this type of consent!) CASL also requires an unsubscribe mechanism to be included in your messages.
Content Creation: Develop engaging content that aligns with your audience’s interests by researching their preferences and needs.
Email Design: Create visually appealing and mobile-responsive email templates that are easy to read and navigate.
Scheduling: Determine the frequency of your newsletters, consider the best timing for delivery, and schedule their distribution.
Analytics: Track key metrics such as open rates to measure the performance of your newsletters and make data-driven adjustments.
Tips for Successful Newsletters
Know Your Audience: Understand your subscribers’ needs and preferences to create relevant content.
Keep it Concise: People are busy, so keep your newsletters concise, visually engaging, and to the point.
Use a Strong Subject Line: Personalize your subject lines with relevant and compelling content to increase open rates.
Personalize Your Content: Use subscriber data to personalize your emails.
Test and Optimize: Experiment with different subject lines, content formats, and delivery times to find what works best for your audience. More recently, software for newsletters like Mailchimp leverage AI to help marketers optimize email performance through personalized send times, subject lines, and audience segmentation that align with individual behaviour and preferences.
Why Links to Headlines Matter
Linking to headlines within your newsletter can improve click-through rates and drive traffic to your website. Using relevant keywords and crafting engaging headlines can motivate subscribers to click through and explore further.
This can ultimately lead to increased engagement, conversions, and revenue for your business. By testing different headline strategies, you can find what resonates most with your audience and tailor your content to better meet their needs and interests. Taking the time to link to headlines that capture attention and provoke curiosity can make a significant impact on the success of your email marketing campaigns.
Software Options for Newsletters
There are many software options available to help you create and manage your newsletters. Some popular choices include:
Mailchimp: A user-friendly platform with a wide range of features.
Constant Contact: Offers a variety of email marketing tools and integrations.
Twilio SendGrid: A powerful and scalable choice for businesses with large email lists.
Over to You
For small businesses, newsletters can be an invaluable resource. They’ll allow you to develop successful campaigns that increase engagement and help you meet your marketing objectives. If you’re a small business owner seeking to make use of newsletters, consider partnering with the professionals at MYOB to assist in setting up and managing your email marketing campaigns.
