Creative Solutions for Selling 2018 Calendars in 2019: A Comprehensive Guide
When faced with the challenge of selling a 2018 calendar in 2019 during a sales interview, it's crucial to showcase your ability to think creatively and strategically. Below are detailed steps and ideas that you can use in such a scenario.
1. Identifying the Target Audience
Niche Markets: Focus on specific groups that may still find value in a 2018 calendar. For example, collectors, businesses that need to display past events, and individuals who appreciate retro or vintage items.
Promotions: Target businesses that can leverage the calendar for promotional purposes or giveaways. This approach not only helps in repositioning the product but also generates additional revenue streams.
2. Highlighting Unique Selling Points
Design and Artwork: Emphasize any unique artwork themes or design features that make the calendar aesthetically pleasing. This can be a marketing angle that resonates with art enthusiasts.
Historical Value: If the calendar features significant events from 2018, highlight these as conversation starters or nostalgic items. This can make the calendar a conversation piece and a valuable collectible.
3. Creating Bundling Opportunities
Bundling with Other Products: Offer the 2018 calendar as part of a bundle with other items like planners, notebooks, or desk organizers to increase the perceived value. Bundling can significantly boost sales by creating a more appealing package that customers perceive as a better deal.
Discount Pricing: Offer significant discounts to encourage bulk purchases. Discounts can be a powerful incentive for customers to buy more, especially during high-traffic periods like back-to-school sales or holiday seasons.
4. Using Creative Marketing Strategies
Social Media Campaigns: Utilize social media platforms to create engaging content that showcases the calendar’s features and potential uses. This can include visual storytelling, behind-the-scenes content, and user-generated content. Social media is a powerful tool for reaching a broader audience and building brand awareness.
Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with influencers who focus on lifestyle nostalgia or home decor to tap into their existing following. Influencer partnerships can help in tapping into a wider audience and adding credibility to your marketing efforts.
5. Leveraging Seasonal Promotions
Back-to-School and Holiday Sales: Position the calendar as a fun gift or a decorative item for new offices or homes during back-to-school sales. Integrating it with holiday-themed promotions can also boost sales, as it aligns with the festive mood.
New Year Promotions: Market it as a collectible or a conversation piece for New Year parties. New Year is a time when people tend to reminisce about the past and plan for the future, making the calendar an ideal gift or decorative item.
6. Customer Engagement
Feedback and Testimonials: Use testimonials from satisfied customers who appreciated the design or utility of the calendar. Testimonials can be powerful social proof that can influence potential buyers.
Interactive Events: Host events or contests that encourage customers to share their favorite memories from 2018, tying back to the calendar. This can create an emotional connection and make the calendar a cherished item.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the key is to think outside the box and understand how to reposition the product in a way that appeals to consumers even when it is technically outdated. This response not only demonstrates your ability to creatively solve problems but also showcases your understanding of market dynamics. It is a crucial skill for any sales executive in today's competitive environment.