Consumer Behaviour Shifts

As Christmas rapidly approaches, December becomes the most
significant month of the year for consumer behaviour. This action-packed month consists of glimmering lights, some questionable jumpers and… Christmas consumers on the hunt. And with the rise in consumerism, businesses are battling for the Search Engine limelight.

So, why is it that search engines matter most in December? This
month signals a major shift towards goal-focused, deadline-led searches. Here’s what people are wondering: ‘Where can I buy?’, ‘What can I buy?’ and ‘Who can deliver swiftly?’.

Increased Competition

Not only does December result in an abundance of online shoppers, but also a considerable number of competing companies. As the desperation for consumer goods intensifies, businesses find themselves bidding for recognition online.  

Inevitably, faced with a vast array of search engine options, consumers are likely to feel overwhelmed and experience some serious browsing burn-out. What consumers are really looking for is a simple, speedy online shopping process that will get the job done. Meaning that consumers are extremely likely to select a website that appears at the higher end of their search engine options. 

Companies that intend to cut through the noise and stand out this festive season should prioritise search visibility. This will be the difference between being chosen and being overlooked. 

Gift related searches create more customers

However, for companies that are prepared, there is an
advantage to this Christmas Chaos. Amid the crowded search engine-space is an
opportunity for businesses to be discovered by new audiences. Most consumers
are not searching for a specific brand. They’re searching for a product.

The brands doing it right will be prioritising product page
optimisation for searches like “gifts for her” or “next day delivery
packaging”. And ensuring that website image and product descriptions align with
customer searches. Resulting in consumers stumbling upon their page when
searching for the perfect product.

Brands optimising their SEO are laying the foundations for
brand awareness and conversions. Give your business an early Christmas present
this year by optimising your company website.

Local search skyrockets

To avoid the stress and frustration of a delayed gift
arrival, customers often base their gift decision-making on delivery times.
Meaning that shoppers are far more likely to select a nearby company to order
from, opposed to a company further afield. Customers want to feel secure in
their decision to order a product from a company.

The increase in search terms including “near me” underlines
that catering to customer demand is crucial for businesses to perform well this
December. Brands will do this by incorporating a variety of delivery options on
their website. Offering ‘next day delivery’ and ‘click and collect’ showcases a
smooth delivery, appealing to customers.

Corporate and bulk ordering season

The festive season is also an optimal time for businesses
who are bulk buying products and personalised packaging. Companies seek
reliable partners that are able to provide swift, efficient deliveries. Brands
optimising their product pages by including B2B sections such as “Bulk
packaging” or “Jewellery boxes: 50 pcs” will draw the attention of companies
with the aim of buying stock.

Quick tip: Do yourself a favour- make your products the best
purchase decision for businesses. Creating a bulk order section on your website
can transform corporate consumers into long-term customers.

Search influences last minute purchases

Just like Santa’s elves, search doesn’t slow down as Christmas
Day approaches. It sustains activity until the very end. Last minute gift
buyers give determined a whole new meaning. These type of customers aren’t
looking to deep-dive into the world of gift giving. Instead, they’re going to
choose the accessible web page at the top of the search engine.

To take advantage of this, businesses should be ensuring
product availability and delivery deadlines. To urge consumers to take action.

SEO benefits to carry into the new year

Many often think of the month of December as a calm and cozy period. When it comes to search, it's the busiest month of the year. Hence why you need to improve your business' SEO now. By grabbing the opportunity to be discovered and build new customer relationships, you'll be paving the way for a prosperous new year.

You've got this!