Getting Your Business Holiday Ready in 5 Simple Steps

Here are five simple, high-impact updates your business can make right now (some so quick you can implement them between customers) to get ahead of the holiday rush.

1. Update Your Hours and Online Info Everywhere

Holiday shoppers are comparing hours, checking maps, and trying to squeeze errands between work, school pickups, and holiday events. If your hours aren’t accurate across Google, Yelp, Facebook, your website, and your chamber listing, you risk losing customers before they even leave the house.

Do a quick search for your business as if you were a customer.

• Is your phone number right?
• Are your photos current?
• Does your holiday schedule show up clearly?

Most people rely on Google’s first page, so correcting those listings now is one of the easiest wins you can score.

2. Refresh Your Signage and Displays

Your storefront or lobby is a strong salesperson this time of year. When signage feels fresh and intentional, customers are more likely to stop, browse, and buy. That’s why so many store front businesses go straight from Halloween to Christmas. Both holidays are visually appealing. In fact, people will enter your business just because you have a cool window. (Poor Thanksgiving, the middle child of holidays.) You don’t have to overhaul your entire look. A few simple updates can make a strong impression:

• Swap weathered signs for clean, readable replacements (unless antique is your vibe)
• Add one seasonal visual element that feels inviting rather than overwhelming
• Use clear markers for gift ideas or bestsellers
• Make sure curbside or pickup instructions are posted where customers can see them

Even small touches create a sense of readiness that customers appreciate during a busy season.

3. Prep Your Team for Upselling Without Feeling Salesy

Your staff can be your holiday heroes. A little training now can lead to bigger revenue and happier customers later. Upselling doesn’t have to feel pushy. It’s simply offering helpful suggestions that customers genuinely appreciate. Consider coaching your team on moments where a gentle recommendation is natural. Think giftwrap, add-on accessories, seasonal specials, or limited-time treats. When employees feel confident, customers feel guided. And both walk away happy

4. Offer Gift Cards, Gift Bundles, or Quick-Grab Options

The closer we get to December, the more people search for simple solutions. They’re panicked. They’re behind the eight ball (or snowball, in this case), and they just want the perfect gift that doesn’t look rushed. Gift cards are a lifesaver for anyone in a time crunch, and they’re one of the highest ROI products you can offer. If you don’t have them, this is the year to add them.

• Small themed gift bundles
• Stocking stuffer displays
• Grab-and-go treats or purchase add-ons
• Digital gift cards for last-minute shoppers

• Run a test order
• Check that links work
• Update product descriptions
• Confirm your inventory tracking is accurate
• Make pickup instructions extremely clear