The holiday season is an optimum time to sell your wares and services. Make sure to market yourself effectively with these tips.

Deck out your business window festively

Get creative. If people stop to look at your window, it increases the chances they’ll walk into your store.

Make it easy for customers to present purchases as gifts

This may mean offering a gift-wrapping service or simply selling gift bags beside the checkout counter that correlate as much as possible with the size of the items you sell. And don’t forgot the tissue paper and gift cards.

Group related items attractively and sell as a unit

While this strategy works best with retail businesses, service-based industries can get creative and use this strategy as well. If you’re a veterinarian, get a little basket and place a gourmet doggy treat, a dog toothbrush and a toy together. (Don’t underestimate people’s desire to present their pets with gifts during the holiday season.) Retailers should have an even easier time. Create different groupings  — one for men, women, teens, children, whatever makes sense. And if this is too involved, make a sign suggesting the perfect combinations. And by the cash register or checkout counter,  put out the items that would be perfect for stocking stuffers  — and make a sign declaring this as well.

Play holiday music

It’s a simple thing, but it puts customers in a good mood.

Create a relaxation area

Shopping can be brutal on the feet. A couple of comfortable chairs will likely be very much appreciated. If you can offer a plate of cookies or a beverage, you’ll be even more popular.

Blog, tweet and Facebook about the holidays and how it relates to your business

Customers and journalists alike are on the hunt for holiday-related items. You may be surprised at the increase in traffic you’ll get out of using the word “holiday” in your posts. Pair that with “deals” and you’ll likely see even greater traffic.