Maximize Your Holiday Shopping in 2020
Did you know that 2021 will come sooner if you just get your holiday shopping over with already? We get it. This year has been devastatingly hard for so many people. We want to make things a little easier for you, so read on for some tips for a smoother online shopping experience that will have you, if not laughing all the way, then at least not sweating it on Hannukah, Christmas, Kwanza, or your holiday of choice.
Retail Therapy
2020 got you down? Financial psychologists (yeah, that’s a real job) say that emotional purchasing can definitely lift your mood – but make sure you go in with a plan, a budget, and maybe some blue-light blocking glasses because this year you will want to do the bulk of your holiday shopping online to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Many travelers take the holidays off, so hopefully you’ll have more time to surf the web for holiday deals.
Black Friday…Month?
A lot of retailers started their holiday deals in October this year. But don’t fret; there’s plenty of action left for you. Expect some significant price drops on top retailers’ popular items starting the Monday before Black Friday, November 23, and continuing through Cyber Monday.
Here’s the scoop on the major online shopping events coming your way:
Black Friday – You’ll want to go online this year for Black Friday deals. Macy’s, Walmart, Costco, Best Buy, Target, Kohl’s, Bath & Body Works, The Home Depot, and Dick’s Sporting Goods (among many others) are closing their doors on Thanksgiving. These stores all have their Black Friday deals online now, so go right ahead. I’ll take a 3-wick candle, please.
Cyber Monday – You can expect retailer deals from Black Friday to continue for several days, sort of absorbing the typical Monday-after-Black-Friday online shopping spree. Amazon’s Cyber Monday deals will go from November 28th-30th.
Don’t want to click around so much? Try an aggregator site like blackfriday.com or Hip2Save for listings of Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals from multiple sites.
Shipping Tips and Tricks
Supply chains and delivery systems are still ensnared in pandemic-related delays. Retailers are encouraging early shopping if you want your items to arrive on time, so don’t make the mistake of waiting too long to order your gifts. Budget accordingly, because USPS prices are temporarily raised, and expedited shipping on retailer websites always costs more than you think it will.
You don’t have to patronize big box stores to save on shipping. BOPIS (buy online, pick up in store) isn’t just fun to say; it’s also a great way to avoid shipping delays. You can support small and local businesses by ordering online and then opting for contactless, curbside pickup. Most small businesses can be very accommodating and, bonus, you’ll feel like a hero for helping them meet their holiday goals.
Buyer Beware
You should only use secure websites for purchases – this means you’ll see “https” in the URL and the locked padlock icon by the web address. Your firewalls should take care of most attacks, but make sure you’re updating your devices regularly to take advantage of security patches and antivirus updates. Also, make sure to shop with reputable companies. We all laughed too hard at that meme where someone accidentally bought those giant AirPods from Wish. No? Just me? Anyway, read some reviews if you’re planning on shopping on an unfamiliar site.
Don’t Forget About Number One
2020 has been A YEAR. You are working in arguably the most crucial industry in the world right now, and you’ve likely been under a lot of stress. As the incomparable Donna Meagle from Parks and Recreation would say, “Treat yo’ self.” It’s better to give than to receive, yeah, okay, but self-care is essential, and so are you. Make a wish list for yourself and choose the item you want most. You don’t even have to wrap it, so win-win! Also, it’s hard to wrap a Peloton.
Shopping for a new career?
The holiday season brings high patient volume, even without a pandemic. Hospitals and care facilities need staff to fill the gaps. Do you need a fresh start this holiday season? If you’re looking for a holiday assignment, contact our professional recruiters today. Make your holidays merry and bright by starting a new adventure with GetMed.