It’s that time of year again for businesses to put a focus on their holiday outreach and messaging to customers, clients and employees, which is absolutely critical in establishing connections. Holiday outreach can be beneficial in creating solid relationships and building trust. It also shows that the business values the individual and does not just see them as a dollar sign or a way to make revenue. Holiday outreach benefits can also roll over into Q1 of the new year if the outreach is done efficiently and effectively and leaves a lasting impression for customers and clients, turning holiday outreach into a 2-for-1.
Messaging
Nailing down messaging about any topic can be difficult but becomes an even bigger challenge around the holidays when most businesses are opting for the common and played out phrases such as “Happy Holidays!”, “Season’s Greetings!” or “Thanks for being a customer this year!” Businesses can use this opportunity to cut through the noise as well as convey a strong call of action that can be beneficial to the business.
One way to cut through the noise and make sure your messaging is memorable, is to find a way to make a bold statement while also still making sure it is lighthearted and captures the season. For example, play up key holiday words like “We didn’t want to be a Grinch this year and not say happy holidays” or “From our family of elves to yours.” Double points if you are able to also incorporate your company or industry into the messaging such as, “Take care of your ‘elf during the holidays” for the health industry or “Deck the halls of your new gingerbread house” for real estate agents.
Take this time to also boast a bit and share some interesting sales numbers or a highlight from this year. Thank your clients and customers for being a part of achieving these goals and making a difference for the business. This is also the ideal time to throw in a call of action. Add a discount code or let them know to keep an eye on the site after the holidays for special sales. It can also be eye catching to throw in a few hints or teases about projects or products they can expect to see in Q1 to keep your audience captured into the new year.
Method of Communication
While emails tend to be the way most companies go when it comes to method of communication, especially since technology seems to be ruling consumers’ lives, there’s a surprising communication method they would actually prefer. According to a Handwrytten survey, 45 percent of consumers say handwritten notes make them feel more appreciated over traditional communication channels such as email, text or phone call. Using this knowledge companies can opt for the personal, yet automated handwritten notes that can still provide the appreciation and effort the consumer is looking for without spending hours of labor to accomplish.
One thing to know when using handwritten card services is to keep in mind any deadlines delivery services have to ensure your holiday cards arrive in time. Nothing is worse than having the perfect messaging down, only for the card to arrive weeks after the holidays.
David Wachs is the CEO and Founder of Handwrytten, a company bringing a modern twist to traditional communication through automated handwritten notes. As a seasoned entrepreneur, he founded Cellit, a text messaging company providing innovative communications solutions to leading brands. David is also a frequent speaker on messaging technology and has presented for the Direct Marketing Association, the Advertising Research Foundation, and. Other notable organizations.
