TV Tips for Last Minute Holiday Shopping

TV Tips for No Stress Last Minute Shopping By Ken Okel

On almost every TV newscast across the country you'll see a story about people doing their last minute holiday shopping. As a news veteran, it's a story I've covered many times. Along the way I've picked up several tips from shoppers that can make this year's rush for gifts as painless as possible.

Park first, shop faster.

People spend a lot of valuable time looking for the perfect parking spot. While it may exist, the search for it may expose you to endless frustration as you drive through row after row. Plus, you're making it that much easier for a distracted driver to back into you. Trust me, take the first spot you see. You'll cut your stress and burn off a few calories by walking a little further.

Have a plan.

Late in the holiday season, you'll find a lot of store merchandise well picked over. Maybe you don't mind getting your petite Aunt a size XXL sweater but she might find it a bit roomy. Before you enter the stores, think through your family and try to come up with the most non-specific gifts possible. It's a lot easier to buy a sweater than a specific style or brand. Of course you want to avoid the dreaded fruitcake situation (unless your family loves them) as much as possible. Go with general styles and sizes and then pick through the remaining inventory. You'll likely find something that will work.

When in doubt, get a gift card.

Gift cards can be a lifesaver but they do lack a certain personal touch. Try to buy something in addition to the card that makes it seem like you did a little thinking about the present. For instance, buy a bookmark that goes with your gift card to a book store. This is a situation where a little thought can go along way.

Keep re-gifting in mind.

Okay, you admit that having a gift is more important than having the perfect gift to give. That's why you're in the store at the last minute after all! But keep in mind that while the present you purchase may get you off the hook, it may never be taken out of the box if it's a poor match for your loved one. Try to make sure that it has universal appeal so that it can at least be re-gifted to a better home. How do you do this? Ask a nearby shopper if the item is something they might like. Don't necessarily listen to their words so much as look at their face. You'll get an immediate and honest response that way. Remember, if an item is still in stock, there may be reason why it's still there.

Be polite to the sales force. By the end of the holiday season the people behind the registers are probably getting pretty tired. Saying something like, "You're doing a great job with the crowds," to the check out clerk will earn you at worst a smile and at best, some better service. This can be invaluable as you're frantically searching for something that may be in short supply.

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Ken Okel is a communications expert who uses his real life broadcasting experiences to help successful organizations communicate better, reduce stress, and laugh a lot more. Contact Ken Okel at (561) 737-4321 or email TVGuy@kenokel.com to reserve your program date or to find out more.

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