It’s hard to believe, but Christmas is only 89 days away! Today, we’ll be taking you through a quiz to help you get ready for the Christmas crunch-time, getting your social medias up to par in time for the holidays. Here’s a guide to help you maximize your social media strategy this Christmas season with the 12 Posts of Christmas challenge!

1. True or False: Nearly 90% of consumers say that social media influences their shopping decisions.

Result: True

Nearly 90% of consumers say that social media impacts their holiday shopping decisions. That means, if you haven’t already, it’s time to strengthen your holiday presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Regular updates with festive posts, product highlights, and customer testimonials can help keep your brand on shoppers’ radars.

2. What social media platform do over half of consumer plan to use to contact brands for their customer service needs over the holidays? Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or X/Twitter?

Result: Facebook

Over 50% of holiday shoppers plan to contact brands for support via Facebook. In many communities, Facebook is still a go-to platform for connecting with local businesses. Make sure your team is prepared to respond quickly and with warmth, channeling your Southern hospitality. Being prompt and friendly can turn a simple question into a life-long customer.

3. Fill in the Blank: __% of customers will use social media to either find or buy items for the holidays.

Answer: 65%

Did you know that 65% of customers will turn to social media to find or buy holiday items, highlighting how much potential there is for businesses to showcase their products directly to eager shoppers. Post your seasonal offerings, share exclusive promotions, post a “Gift of the Day,” or use holiday-specific hashtags (like #ChristmasSale) to boost visibility. Localize your posts with location tags to ensure your local customers can easily discover your products.

4. Fill in the Blank: ___% of people have bought a product after seeing it in a brand’s social media post.

Answer: 76%

A staggering 76% of consumers have bought a product after seeing it in a brand’s social media post. That means that every time you post, you have an opportunity to convert followers, or random scrollers, into customers. Highlight your best-selling holiday items, share product demos, or post customer testimonials. With a compelling image or video, you’re just one click away from making a sale.

5. What percentage of Gen Z shoppers get their holiday gift ideas from social media? 45%, 62%, 87%, or 100%?

Answer: 87%

It’s no secret: Gen Z is our first digital generation. Did you know that 87% of Gen Z shoppers turn to social media for holiday gift inspiration? If you’re hoping to capture the attention of younger shoppers (like college students or young adults), make sure your social media content is tailored for the platforms they love, such as TikTok or Instagram Reels. Fun, creative posts that showcase gift ideas or collaborate with local influencers can help attract this younger audience.

6. Fill in the Blank: In December, peak social media engagement times shift to the _______ hours as users search for gift ideas.

Answer: Evening

In December, research shows that social media engagement peaks in the evening hours as people unwind and scroll through their feeds in search of gift ideas. Aim to post between 7–9 PM when your customers are likely relaxing after work and looking for holiday inspiration. This is prime time for users to interact with your posts and make last-minute purchasing decisions.

7. True or False: Around 42% of shoppers are using social media more for holiday gift inspiration this year compared to last year

Answer: True

Did you know that 42% of shoppers are using social media more for holiday gift inspiration this year compared to last year? It’s essential to keep your content fresh and evolving. If you’re planning your strategy from one year to the next, consider adding new twists—like running a holiday countdown on Instagram Stories or hosting a live holiday shopping event on Facebook. Keep your approach dynamic to stay relevant in a growing digital shopping environment.

8. True or False: 42% of U.S. holiday shoppers say they prefer supporting local small businesses over big national chains during the holidays.

Answer: True

Around 42% of U.S. holiday shoppers say they prefer supporting small businesses over large national chains. If you’re a small business, make sure your social media shows it, reflecting your local connections and community spirit. Share your story, highlight your involvement in local events, and express gratitude to your customers. Your roots in the community will resonate with shoppers who want to support their neighbors.

9. Which state leads the U.S. with the highest percentage of residents (81.1% of people age 15+) using the internet for social media? California, New York, Tennessee, or Florida?

Answer: Tennessee

In Tennessee, over 81% of people aged 15+ are using the internet for social media. This is one of the highest percentages in the U.S., making it, and other similar states, an ideal location to promote your small business. Make sure your social media efforts are focused on platforms like Facebook and YouTube, which are popular in rural areas. Engage with your local audience where they’re already spending their time. Meeting your audience where they’re at is easier than making them find you.

10. Small Business Saturday is an annual event encouraging people to shop local. When is Small Business Saturday observed each year in the U.S.? December 1st, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the last Saturday before Christmas, or the first Saturday of November?

Answer: The Saturday after Thanksgiving

Small Business Saturday, observed the Saturday after Thanksgiving, is the premier annual celebration of local businesses. Use this day to your advantage by offering a special promotion and sharing it on your social media platforms. Use hashtags like #ShopSmall and #SmallBusinessSaturday to join the national conversation and encourage your local community to support small businesses.

11. True or False: Social media influencers can inspire holiday gift choices more than friends or family recommendations for many consumers.

Answer: True

Consumers are more likely to be influenced by social media influencers than by friends or family when making holiday gift choices. Partnering with local influencers or community figures can help introduce your products to new audiences and lend credibility to your brand. A shout-out from a popular local or national influencer can make all the difference, especially if their followers align with your target market.

12. Which type of social media post is most likely to lead a person to make an immediate purchase during the holiday season? A post with a holiday promo code, a heartfelt message, a photo of your store or office’s Christmas decor, or a funny meme with a holiday theme?

Answer: A post offering a special holiday promo code or discount

Lastly, social media posts featuring exclusive promo codes for holiday discounts are the most likely to drive immediate purchases. For a small business, offering a “24-hour Christmas Promo Code” on platforms like Facebook and Instagram can help create a sense of urgency. Use compelling visuals and a clear call-to-action to prompt followers to act now and take advantage of the deal before it’s too late.

---

The holiday season presents a fantastic opportunity for small businesses to shine on social media. By implementing all 12 holiday promotion facts, you can engage your audience and boost sales, all while spreading festive cheer. From customer service readiness to influencer collaborations, the right social media strategy will help you connect with your customers and ensure a merry and successful holiday season.