As the holiday season approaches, service-based businesses may feel a bit out of the loop compared to retail-focused brands. But don’t worry—the holiday rush isn’t just for product sellers. In fact, this time of year can be a perfect opportunity for service providers to connect with clients, increase engagement, and even book out the schedule for the new year. With a few creative tactics, your business can make the most of the season and end the year on a high note.

Whether you’re in health and wellness, consulting, home services, or another service field, here are 15 ways to harness the holiday spirit and set your business up for success.

1. Promote Gift Cards for Last-Minute Shoppers

Gift cards are ideal for clients who want to give the gift of your services, like a massage, wellness session, or personal training package. Spotlight gift cards as a convenient and flexible holiday gift, emphasizing that they’re perfect for anyone who needs a little extra “me-time” after the busy season.

Example: A massage therapist could post about gift certificates as a “stress-relief gift,” perfect for last-minute shoppers or Secret Santa exchanges. Pair the post with a quick video explaining how gift cards can be redeemed for any service.

2. Create Holiday-Themed Bundles or Packages

Holiday bundles make gifting your services easy and attractive. You might create packages like a “New Year’s Reset” for health coaching or a “Relaxation Bundle” for wellness services, complete with discounts for booking multiple sessions at once.

Example: A wellness coach could offer a “New Year’s Reset” package that includes an introductory session, a goal-setting workshop, and a follow-up call for accountability. This bundle gives clients a way to kickstart their new year with a plan.

3. Run a Limited-Time Holiday Offer

Offering a holiday-exclusive package or discount can create urgency. Consider discounts on January bookings or a special price for seasonal packages, emphasizing the time-sensitive nature of the offer.

Example: A personal trainer could offer a “Holiday Hustle” package with a discounted rate for clients who book by December 31. Highlight the limited-time nature of the offer with a countdown to increase urgency.

4. Showcase Customer Testimonials and Reviews

Share testimonials that focus on holiday or end-of-year benefits clients have received from your services. Client reviews can build trust and encourage others to book.

Example: A Naturopathic Doctor could share a testimonial from a client who used their sessions to manage holiday stress. This shows potential clients the real-life impact of your services during the busy season.

5. Share Behind-the-Scenes Holiday Prep

A peek behind the curtain helps clients feel connected to your brand. Show how you’re preparing for the season, whether it’s decorating your space, planning holiday specials, or even sharing a team photo.

Example: A spa could share a photo of holiday decor and seasonal scents in the waiting room, showing that they’re ready to welcome clients with a festive atmosphere.

6. Create a Holiday Giveaway

Partner with a complementary local business for a holiday giveaway. The extra engagement and new followers can boost your visibility and reach.

Example: A yoga studio could partner with a local tea shop to give away a “Relax and Recharge” package, including yoga classes and a tea sampler. This helps both businesses gain new followers and builds a sense of community.

7. Use Social Media to Offer a Holiday Countdown

Create a countdown with daily tips, insights, or mini-offers. This can help you stay top-of-mind while providing consistent value.

Example: A nutritionist could share a “12 Days of Healthy Holidays” series featuring quick, holiday-friendly health tips. Each day, they might share advice on how to enjoy holiday treats in moderation or healthy alternatives.

8. Partner with Influencers for Holiday Campaigns

Collaborating with local influencers who align with your brand can amplify your reach. Choose influencers who have an authentic following and engage their audience meaningfully.

Example: A digital marketer could partner with an up-and-coming local influencer to promote a special “Holiday Boost Package.” One of their standard packages could include sponsored posts shared by the influencer so both parties and their clients could benefit.

9. Highlight Client Success Stories or Transformations

Sharing transformation stories can inspire new clients to consider your services, especially as they look forward to the new year.

Example: A life coach could feature a client success story about someone who achieved a major goal with their help, framing it as a “new year, new goals” story to motivate followers.

10. Host a Virtual Event or Workshop

Hosting a holiday-themed virtual event, like a workshop or webinar, can demonstrate your expertise and attract new clients.

Example: A career coach could hold a free “Goal-Setting for 2024” webinar to help clients prepare for the new year. The event can serve as an introduction to the coach’s approach and encourage participants to consider ongoing services.

11. Encourage User-Generated Content with a Holiday Twist

Create a unique hashtag and invite clients to share how they’re enjoying or benefiting from your services during the holidays.

Example: A nail salon could encourage clients to post photos with the hashtag #HolidayNails and tag the business, showcasing their favourite holiday designs.

12. Create a Holiday Gift Guide with Services

Curate a gift guide highlighting your services, showing how they can make a thoughtful holiday gift. Include suggestions for complementary local businesses to enhance your reach.

Example: A therapist could create a guide with services for “Holiday Self-Care” that includes local wellness products, framing their services as a thoughtful and meaningful gift.

13. Feature 'Gift Ideas' in Stories and Highlights

Create a series of Instagram Stories featuring gift ideas from your offerings. Organize them in Highlights so they’re easy for followers to revisit.

Example: A coaching service could create “gift idea” stories for different goals, like “Career Goals,” “Stress Relief,” or “Personal Growth.” This helps clients envision your services as gifts for friends or family.

14. Optimize Social Media Profiles for Holiday Services

Update your bio with keywords like “gift certificates” or “holiday specials” and link to a page where clients can learn more or make purchases.

Example: An Acupuncturist could update their Instagram bio to say, “Give the gift of relaxation. Holiday gift cards available!” This makes it easy for potential clients to know what’s available and where to find it.

15. Run Targeted Ads for Holiday Promotions

Social media ads allow you to reach new audiences, particularly around the holidays. Focus on gift ideas or seasonal packages that are likely to appeal to holiday shoppers.

Example: A financial planner could run a Facebook ad campaign promoting a “New Year, New Finances” package aimed at people interested in financial wellness as a New Year’s resolution.

Using social media strategically during this time allows you to tap into the festive spirit that already surrounds your audience, making your services feel timely, relevant, and essential. Whether it’s by showcasing giftable options, sharing success stories, or offering a countdown of helpful tips, social media can help keep your business front and center amid the holiday excitement.

Even if you’re new to seasonal promotions, these tactics can make a big difference. Studies show that people are more engaged on social media during the holiday season, looking for inspiration, gift ideas, and ways to make their celebrations meaningful. By presenting your services in ways that speak directly to these needs, you position your business as the go-to choice for thoughtful, experience-driven gifts and support.

So, take advantage of this holiday season to create memorable interactions, attract new clients, and deepen your connection with existing ones. With the right approach, you’ll not only end the year strong but also lay the groundwork for lasting relationships and a prosperous new year.

Ready to make this holiday season work for you? Book a Discovery Call today, and let’s get started on crafting a social media plan that brings your business into the spotlight this season!