9 ‘Demure and mindful’ ecommerce tips to prep your business for peak season

POV: The holiday season is approaching and customers refer friends and family to your small business. Anyone 13-30 years old and on TikTok would describe this behavior as "very demure, very mindful." But what does that mean anyway?

Context: The phrase originates from TikToker Jools Lebron whose viral video showcasing her "very demure, very mindful" makeup and style has sparked a marketing frenzy.

Definition: Merriam-Webster defines “demure” as modest and reserved, but Lebron and the internet have redefined it as a personal mantra for being mindful and considerate while staying true to yourself. For many, "demure" is so much more than an aesthetic–it's a lifestyle and a revolution.

Ecommerce translation: In the midst of bustling online shopping events during peak season, embodying the essence of being "very demure, very mindful" entails meticulously preparing your logistics and operations well in advance to ensure a seamless flow of operations.

Here’s how you can infuse your holiday prep with a touch of demure and mindfulness, ensuring you remain composed, collected, and ready for success.

1. Confirm inventory with suppliers

In today’s fast-paced ecommerce landscape, being “very demure and very mindful” isn’t just a mantra—it’s a strategic advantage. As you prepare for peak season, ensure your inventory is confirmed with suppliers well in advance. This isn’t merely about ticking boxes; it’s about ensuring your supply meets your increased demand.

Engage in thoughtful dialogue with your suppliers, discussing current purchase orders in motion as well as any challenges or delays they might expect. By doing this early, you’re not just confirming numbers—you’re building a rapport that will pay off when the pressure is on. A mindful approach ensures that you can anticipate any hiccups and address them calmly, without the last-minute stress that often accompanies peak season.

2. Get organized

There’s a quiet power in well-organized inventory—it’s not only about functionality but also about creating a workspace that embodies efficiency and tranquility. Taking the time to organize your workspace is an act of mindfulness that can significantly impact your business operations during the peak season.

Start by reviewing your current inventory layout and identifying areas where improvements can be made. For example:

• Is there unnecessary clutter that could be eliminated?
• Are your products arranged in a way that allows for quick and easy access?
• Have you moved any stale inventory to storage to make space for popular products?

By categorizing and labeling your stock clearly, you ensure your team or dedicated workforce picking and packing orders can find what they need without the chaos that often comes with high demand.

Remember, a serene workspace leads to a clear mind. These organization efforts benefit your internal processes while creating a more harmonious environment your team will appreciate.

3. Prep inventory for different sales channels

As you approach peak season, a mindful approach to inventory preparation for various sales channels is essential. Each platform you sell on—whether it’s Amazon, Etsy, or your own ecommerce site—comes with its own set of guidelines and requirements. Navigating these complexities with care and precision is key to avoiding last-minute headaches.

Take the time now to meticulously prep your inventory according to each platform’s specifications. This means more than just ensuring you have enough stock on hand—it’s about understanding the nuances of each channel and preparing your products accordingly. Whether it’s labeling, packaging, or fulfilling specific platform requirements, attention to detail will save you from costly mistakes down the line.

Pro tip: Hire temporary labor (i.e., Saltbox's eForce team) to complete tasks like FBA prep, kitting, bundling, and more, so you can focus on navigating peak season.

By embracing this thorough preparation, you can transition into peak season with a sense of calm and confidence, knowing that you’ve laid the groundwork for smooth, successful operations across all channels.

4. Optimize pick-and-pack processes

Efficiency is the cornerstone of a successful peak season, but it doesn’t have to come at the cost of mindfulness. By optimizing your pick-and-pack process now, you can create a system that’s both fast and fluid, allowing you to handle increased order volumes without the stress and strain that often accompany this busy time.

Start by analyzing your current pick-and-pack procedure:

• Where are the bottlenecks?
• Are there areas where mistakes are commonly made?

Once you’ve identified these pain points, implement changes that streamline the workflow. This might include:

• Rearranging your packing stations for better flow;
• Investing in software that automates part of the process, like Saltbox’s Parsel app with batch recommendation features;
• or even hiring dedicated staff to pick and pack orders for you. Some Flexible warehousing solutions like Saltbox offer pick-and-pack services so you can save time and reduce headaches during the busy holiday season.

The goal is to create a process that’s as smooth as possible, one that allows you to maintain a steady, mindful pace even when the pressure is on. This not only ensures quick fulfillment times but also allows you to handle unexpected surges in demand with grace and poise.

5. Improve on-time shipping metrics

In the world of ecommerce, nothing demonstrates a “very demure” approach more than consistently delivering packages on time. As you prepare for peak season, improving your on-time delivery metrics should be a top priority. After all, punctuality reflects your brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction and reliability.

To achieve this, start by reviewing your current shipping processes:

• Are there areas where delays are occurring?
• Could closer collaboration with your shipping partners help mitigate these issues?
• Consider alternative delivery options, such as local and emerging carriers or expedited shipping services, to ensure that your customers receive their orders on time, every time.

Improving your on-time delivery metrics isn’t just about logistics—it’s about building trust with your customers. When they know they can count on you to deliver as promised, they’re more likely to return, helping to foster long-term loyalty and positive word-of-mouth.

6. Opt for sustainable packaging

Sustainability is more than just a trend; it’s a mindful business practice that resonates deeply with today’s consumers. As you prepare for peak season, take the time to explore sustainable packaging options that align with your brand’s values and commitment to the environment.

Consider options like recycled materials, biodegradable packaging, or even reusable packaging solutions that customers can appreciate long after the holiday season has passed. Not only does this demonstrate your dedication to reducing environmental impact, but it also enhances your brand’s reputation as one that cares about the planet and its future.

By choosing sustainable packaging, you’re not just making a statement—you’re making a difference. This thoughtful approach will resonate with customers who value sustainability, creating a deeper connection and encouraging them to support your business during the busiest time of the year.

7. Be mindful of your customer communications and support

Effective communication and customer support are the backbone of a successful peak season. As the holidays approach, your customers will have questions, concerns, and issues that need to be addressed thoughtfully. A mindful approach to both communication and support can make all the difference in shaping their experience with your brand.

Start by setting clear expectations from the beginning. Make sure your website and product pages include accurate information about the following:

• Shipping times
• Product availability
• Any potential delays

Implementing automated updates that keep customers informed throughout the order process can also reduce the need for them to reach out with inquiries. When customers do contact you, ensure your responses are timely, clear, and empathetic, fostering trust and reducing stress on both sides.

Additionally, your customer support team must be in top shape to handle the influx of inquiries. A “demure” support approach—operating with patience, understanding, and efficiency—can help resolve issues calmly and effectively.  Review your current support system for any gaps, and consider additional training or even temporarily expanding your team to manage the increased volume.

By combining mindful communication with well-prepared support, you’ll create a smoother, less stressful experience for your customers and reinforce your brand’s reputation for exceptional service during the busy holiday season.

8. Add purchase-by deadlines to your website and product pages

Helping your customers plan ahead is a key aspect of a mindful business strategy. One simple yet effective way to do this is by clearly displaying purchase-by deadlines on your website and product pages. This ensures that customers know exactly when they need to place their orders to receive them in time for the holidays.

By providing this information upfront, you not only help reduce the stress of last-minute shopping for your customers but also help manage your own order flow more effectively. This proactive approach can lead to a smoother, more organized peak season, where everyone benefits from a little extra planning.

Consider also including gentle reminders in your email marketing campaigns, encouraging customers to shop early and avoid the rush. This thoughtful communication reinforces your commitment to a positive shopping experience and helps to build trust and loyalty with your audience.

9. Have an easy process in place for returns

Returns are an inevitable part of ecommerce, especially during the holiday season. But rather than viewing them as a nuisance, consider them an opportunity to reinforce your brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction. A “demure” returns process is one that’s seamless, stress-free, and designed with the customer in mind.

Start by reviewing your current returns policy:

• Does it clearly outline the steps customers need to take?
• Is the process easy to understand and follow?
• Consider simplifying where possible, offering prepaid return labels, or even extending the return window to accommodate the busy holiday season

By making returns as easy as possible, you not only enhance the customer experience but also increase the likelihood of repeat business. A smooth returns process shows your customers that you value their satisfaction above all else, fostering a sense of loyalty that can last well beyond the holiday season.

Elevate your peak season strategy with expert guidance

As you gear up for the peak season, remember that a “very demure and very mindful” approach is more than just a state of mind—it’s a strategic framework that can guide every aspect of your business. By infusing this philosophy into your preparations, you’re setting the stage for a successful, stress-free holiday season, where both you and your customers can thrive.

Want more? Access important updates and other tips and tricks like these to help your business prepare for the 2024 holiday season, available on our peak season preparation hub.