As the holiday season approaches, businesses ramp up efforts to engage customers and maximize sales. A highly effective tool is your on-hold marketing message. This time is an opportunity to strengthen your brand, promote holiday offerings, and spread festive cheer. By crafting a purposeful on-hold message, you not only retain your callers but also inspire action. Here’s a few suggestions on how to make your on-hold message merry and bright!
Seasonal Greetings and Festive Cheer
First impressions matter, especially in an on-hold message! Begin your holiday marketing with a warm, welcoming tone that captures the spirit of the season. A cheerful greeting such as “Happy Holidays from all of us to you!” immediately sets a positive tone and can put callers in the festive mood. Consider adding subtle holiday-themed sound effects and choosing the right background holiday music, like sleigh bells or Deck the Halls, to further enhance the experience. However, balance is key—ensure the music and effects are professional and not overpowering, keeping your message clear and audible.
Including a friendly note about your appreciation for your customers is also a great touch. A simple “Thank you for being part of our journey this year. We look forward to serving you in the new year!” fosters goodwill and strengthens customer loyalty.
Highlight Holiday Promotions and Products
The holiday season is a time of increased consumer spending, and your on-hold message is a golden opportunity to inform callers about your special deals and seasonal products. Whether it’s a Christmas discount, limited-time offers, or holiday-exclusive services, make sure your customers know what they can take advantage of. Add scripting to your On-Hold message like:
“Don’t miss our holiday sale! Enjoy 25% off all purchases through December 24th.”As well as
“Looking for the perfect gift? Check out our festive collection on our website!”
If you’re running promotions with specific deadlines, make them clear and concise. Adding urgency to your message encourages immediate action.
Provide Important Holiday Updates
During the holiday season, your business hours, shipping policies, or other operational details might change. Make sure your on-hold message provides this information upfront to help customers plan accordingly and reduce frustration.
Key details to include:
Updated hours of operation: For example, “We’ll be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, but closed on Christmas Day.”
Shipping deadlines: “To ensure your gifts arrive on time, place your orders by December 15th.”
Holiday service changes: If you’re offering extended customer service or have limited availability, let your customers know.
By addressing these practical details in your message, you save your team from repeated questions and show your customers you care about their convenience.
Encourage Digital Engagement and Self-Service Options
The holidays can mean longer wait times for customer service calls, which makes it crucial to provide alternatives. More than likely, holiday callers will be in close proximity to a computer, laptop or device. Use your on-hold message to guide callers toward self-service options, like your website, mobile app, or FAQ section.
Add scripting to your holiday message such as:
“Did you know you can browse our holiday catalog and place orders online?
“For quick answers to common questions, check out the FAQ section on our website.”
“Save time this holiday season by using our app to track orders and schedule pickups.”
Directing customers to digital channels not only improves their experience but also eases the pressure on your customer service team during busy periods.
Bonus Tip: Keep It Short and Sweet
While it’s tempting to include as much information as possible, remember that your callers may only be on hold for a short time. Prioritize your most important points and rotate messages frequently to keep the content fresh and relevant. A concise, engaging message shows respect for your callers’ time and ensures they retain the key details.
The holiday season offers a unique opportunity to connect with your customers and leave a lasting impression. By incorporating seasonal greetings, highlighting promotions, sharing important updates, and encouraging digital engagement, your on-hold marketing message can become a powerful tool in your overall holiday strategy. With a little creativity and thoughtful planning, you can turn hold time into a moment of festive delight that keeps your customers informed, engaged, and eager to interact with your brand.
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” – Edward Pola and George Wyle
“How To Make Your On-Hold Message Merry and Bright!”-Copyright 2024-On-Hold Marketing Inc.