Make Your Best OfferTight consumer budgets may dampen spirits, so here are 5 tips for ringing in the sales this holiday season.

This holiday season, it's all about the offer. Spending at the gas pump and in the grocery store have taken precedence over other purchases as many consumers focus their spending on necessities and business purchasers tighten their belts in response to the economic downturn. With prospects scrutinizing almost every purchase, all your advertising must offer an incentive that will motivate buyers to take action.

Make the offer itself an integral part of your marketing message that follows prospects through the sales process and not an isolated promotion in one medium alone. You'll keep your customers engaged by consistently making your offer throughout all channels. For example, a prospect may first be exposed to your offer in an ad, then visit your website to learn more, and then go to your retail store to take advantage of your offer.