Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. For some industries, Valentine’s Day is a huge deal. If you’re a florist, a jeweler, or a purveyor of fine chocolates, chances are you’ve got your Valentine’s Day messaging already figured out and perhaps even implemented. But what about the rest of the world? Does Valentine’s Day actually matter as a marketing event for businesses that aren’t as obviously romantic?

We’d argue that it does – and not just because we’re all sentimental sweethearts, although that too is obviously true. No, embracing Valentine’s Day makes good business sense. Don’t take our word for it. Look at the pet industry, which stands ready to sell the loving pet parent at least $5 worth of special treats and goodies this February. That’s $5 per pet – and 79,463,000 households in this country that report owning a dog or cat!

The meaning of Valentine’s Day has grown beyond romantic love to encompass the many spheres of our lives where we express affection. People love their pets, and the pet industry has clued into that. But pets aren’t the only thing people love. They also love their cars, their homes, their computers and technology – the list is practically endless.

Now is a good time to think through what your customers love about your products and services. Sometimes this can be a stretch. If you’re a tax accountant, for example, what your customers may love is getting a big refund – or not getting in trouble with the IRS! A plumber might think there’s nothing particularly adorable about their profession – but there’s nothing that makes a customer more blissful than a hot shower after a long day.

Identify what your customers love the most, and craft an incentive offer around that appeal. Another great campaign that works well during the Valentine’s season is a ‘share the love’ event: if one of your customers refers another, they both get 10% off their next purchase (or whatever makes sense for your business).

Now is also the time to collect the images, quotes, and jokes you’ll be sharing with your customers and friends via social media during the Valentine’s Day season. It’s a lot easier to find this material now, when you’re not under last minute pressure!

Do you need help creating compelling sales offers, managing your social media presence, or just getting your best customers to buy from you more often? Give us a call! We’re here to help.