Holiday Countdown Tip #1: Message convenience to win sales

Perhaps not surprisingly given the economy, the number one reason consumers shop online for holiday gifts is to save money. But according to the 2011 MarketLive Consumer Shopping Survey, convenience is almost as important.

Saving money was a top reason to shop online for 79% of consumers, while 77% said saving time was important, and 73% said they shop online to avoid crowds at the mall, according to the survey.

To meet the needs of harried holiday shoppers, promote the convenience of completing purchases online immediately — and fulfill those expectations with robust and prominent customer service information. Technology merchant Newegg is promoting “Hassle Free Holiday Shopping” and backs up the claim with an “Iron Egg” designation for products with free shipping, an extended 60-day period for returns, and a price match guarantee. The promotion reassures shoppers that they’ll receive the lowest available price, and  that recipients will have plenty of time to return the gifts if they so choose.

To view all the tips in this series, visit the Holiday Tips section of the MarketLive blog:
http://www.marketlive-blog.com/tag/2011-holiday-countdown-tips/

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