Highlighted within the insightful infographic are the benefits of a thoughtful and intelligent Internet-based marketing program. 8 out of 10 shoppers will check an item online first – well before buying it in any brick and mortar store. And, more than 7 out of 10 will use Google to find the item they are looking for, lending importance to factors like Google rankings and the potency of the business website.

Additionally, one of the most impactful ways that a small business can drive new business – and truly maximize the benefits of the holiday shopping season – is by leveraging the power of social media and online shopping. While festive signs, holiday music, and steep discounts on gift items and in-demand goods will always be a mainstay of any holiday promotion, today’s consumer is more likely to refer to their Twitter feed than the weekly circular when it comes to making a buying decision.

The holidays are a veritable cash-cow for businesses of all types, yet recent trends have shown that a host of factors are driving the need for more and more companies to innovate in order to attract the almighty consumer dollar. Maximizing your small business success with these tips for the holidays is crucial to supporting your sales campaigns and marketing activities this season.