Turmoil, Deals and Sociability

While the state of our economy will be one of the determining factors in how the fourth quarter will play out this year, that doesn't mean you don't plan for success. Consider the following three strategies:

1. Track this year's online retail traffic compared to previous years, as well as changes in consumer sentiment.
2. Understand the cost-savings motivations of your customers and the differences in their demographic to maximize revenue.
3. Continue to invest in traditional traffic acquisition channels such as search and email, but also take a closer look at social media, group buying and niche flash-sale sites as additional traffic sources for this year's holiday season.

Bill Tancer is the general manager, global research at Hitwise. Reach Bill at bill.tancer@experian.com.