In the digital age, should you still send business Christmas cards? Well why not? In fact, sending a card in this day and age speaks volumes. It shows someone that you have taken the time to let them know you are thinking about them or to thank them for their business & support over the last 12 months.
Throughout the year small businesses are in constant flux to find ways to stand out from the crowd. So, what better way to do this then to send a card at Christmas. It’s a great way to make contact and cement a working relationship into the coming year.
But what are the rules associated with offering a simple gesture? Should small businesses choose to hand write each card or have them printed? Should they be festive or religious? Should a company consider sending cards via email? Unfortunately for such a simple task there are some hard and fast rules to follow.
To be honest this is entirely up to you and what type of business you are in. Obviously if you have an exhaustive customer list sending one to everyone wouldn’t be viable. So perhaps choose your best, most loyal customers and the suppliers you work with regularly. Don’t forget to also send one to investors, business partners and employees.
Its best to tread carefully with this one as you wouldn’t want to offend anyone’s religious beliefs. Instead opt for the safer option and send cards which read happy holiday or season greetings, this way all eventualities will be covered.
You could walk into the nearest pound shop and purchase a box of cards, but before you do ask yourself if this the right image for your business. If you have a little space in your budget, then a great way to show off your brand would be to ask a local artist to design something for your business. This would enable you to offer something unique and give support to another local business.
This will depend on the recipient. But if you are struggling to think of something just a simple thank you, or wishing you a happy holiday will suffice. It’s not really what you say it’s about making contact. If in doubt writing less will make for a sincerer greeting.
Like everything else with your business, keep it within your brand guidelines. Do be creative and perhaps funny if it fits in with your usual company habits. And try not to tackle the task as a chore. Old contacts can be easily lost and new ones gained at this time of year. A small gesture such as a card can go a long way to increasing your network which could prove to be valuable for the coming year.
Next week: Black Friday was last week, what else can you do to promote your business daily at this time of year.