Fancy a mince pie?

Yes folks, Christmas. The summer holidays are over and it’s almost time to get the tree out of the loft.

We jest. But only a little…

From a business perspective, now is the time to decide what you’re going to do to mark the end of 2022. As part of that, you’re going to need to thank the people that supported you on your journey this year.

Not just your clients but also your colleagues, collaborators, suppliers… your whole support network.

Why should you be thinking about this now? Ask any marketing agency: every year it gets to November and clients are running around doing a last-minute Larry for their end-of-year campaigns. Getting ahead of things early and getting your plans in place will pay dividends down the line and give your end-of-year campaign the quality it deserves.

Don’t worry, there’s no need to get the tinsel out just yet, but you should be making plans so you can hit the ground running once the winter months come around.

Is it time for a party?

It’s been a sobering couple of years and the party landscape has certainly shifted. The days of a big shebang at Nakatomi Plaza are gone; parties are warmer, humbler affairs.

In arranging your Christmas party, there are a few shifts to be aware of:

• People are more protective of their non-working time and choose more selectively than before: you will receive fewer acceptances.
• Your guests are more aware of their health and well-being than before the pandemic. Healthier food and drink options will go down well.
• Life moves pretty fast… and things change. Often at the last minute. Expect at least a 30% drop off on the day.

Give thoughtfully

People love to receive something real in the post. But this year, everyone’s belts are a little tighter than before. The cost of living crisis will be biting hard in December.

Corporate gifts of wine and hampers may seem crass – a donation to the food bank or a cost-of-living bonus for your staff might be more appropriate.

Also, everyone has moved and hybrid working is entrenched. Sending gifts and cards may involve people’s home addresses. GDPR beware!

Be creative

Digital is your friend, but not just an e-card. Invest in some video or an animation. Be clever and creative with vouchers, email, and social media. There’s so much opportunity to create a campaign that will live long in the memory.

And please, please think small and support local businesses. This is how you put your values into action.

Be kind

For those of you in a position to support a charity for your Christmas campaign, now is the time to start thinking about it.

There are clouds on the horizon. The cost of living crisis will be biting hard come December and charities are crying out for help. Supporting needy local charities working on the front line to feed, clothe and house families in distress is a great vehicle to funnel your charitable contributions.

–

Need helping planning a campaign? Contact Luma today and we’ll put a plan together for success.