10 ways to show holiday cheer

10 ways to show holiday cheer

Two simple words “thank you” can go a long way in businesses today.  Social media expert Gary Vaynerchuk says that “We’re living in what I like to call the ‘Thank you Economy,’ because the only companies that can figure out how to mind their manners in a very old-fashioned way–and do it authentically– are going to have a prayer of competing.” If you want to keep competing and keep your customers and employees satisfied, let them know just how much they mean to you this holiday season.

1. Be specific: Rather than simply saying, “Thanks for the good work,” tell your employees how much that one particular thing they did meant to you.  Recognize when they go above and beyond what is expected, and say something like, “Thank you for working late last night to make sure that customer was satisfied; dedication like yours will be the success of this company.”  A focused thank you is more meaningful and will increase your employees’ motivation and productivity.

2. Make it personal: Give a gift that connects to your employees’ personal life to make your message more authentic and sound.  Such an intimacy breaks the ice in an emotional and professional way, which creates a pathway to success.

3. Use good, old-fashioned snail mail: The time that it takes to write out a thank you note means much more than a simple text message or e-mail.  It indicates a deeper level of appreciation, and the extra effort will not go unnoticed and your customer satisfaction will increase dramatically.  They will most definitely choose you for their next move!

4. If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all: Your customers and employees will know if your “thank you” is genuine.  Also, if a thank you is not necessary, don’t say it.  It is extremely important to be genuine and authentic in gratitude.  “Engagement has to be heartfelt, or it won’t work,” according to Vaynerchuk.

5.  Add some gifts: Sometimes words aren’t enough, so maybe offering little incentives for your employees who go above and beyond, like a gift certificate or a small bonus, will be just enough to boost productivity.  If you go out of your way to reward your employees, they will go out of their way to work their hardest.

6. Don’t forget the ones who make it possible: It is extremely important to give thanks and show appreciation to the often-overlooked crew that makes your business run smoothly.  The delivery guy who delivers your storage boxes or the trash collector that keeps you from pulling your hair out deserve just as much of a thank you as your employees.  A little effort to show them how much you appreciate them will make you stand out and their great service will get even better.

7. Refer business to your partners: There is no better way to thank your partners and vendors than by sending business their way.  Maybe if you throw a party with all of your vendors and partners, inviting your suppliers, accountant, lawyer, investors, and anyone else you do business with to give everyone a chance to network and connect with new clients.

8. Send memorable gifts: Send a distinctive thank-you and holiday gift to your employees, customers, and partners so that they will remember it and your company.

9. Kill them with kindness: Complaining customers are going out of their way to tell you why they were dissatisfied, so you should try to fix the problem and thank them for their business and their input.  Every complaint should be taken as an opportunity to improve relationships and improve business.

10. Give social media shout-outs: Thank customers by publicly showing your gratitude on Facebook or Twitter.  Perhaps even profile one of your customers on your company blog, explaining why you appreciate them so much.  Showing how much you value your business publicly will show the online world how great of a company you are.

The best way to spread holiday cheer is by singing loud for all to hear! So let everyone know how much you appreciate them, be genuine, and enjoy watching your company flourish!