Spread The Yuletide Joy: 5 Ways To Wish Your Clients Happy Holidays

By Stefanie Neyland, Small Business Content Developer at BizLaunch.com

 

So far, as part of our Christmas blog series, we’ve outlined how your small business can hop on the Black Friday/Cyber Monday bandwagon and how you can incorporate the holidays into B2C your marketing plan. But for those of you who operate a B2B business, there’s another part of your holiday marketing strategy that you’ve probably yet—or are just beginning—to think about: how to wish your clients happy holidays.

If you’re currently debating whether or not to go through with the age old holiday ritual of sending out corporate gifts and cards, then ponder no more, as the answer is simple: yes, you should be sending your clients some form of holiday wishes. A well-branded, personalized card or favour can reinforce your relationships with clients, prospects, partners and vendors—and in the digital age, the humble Christmas card or token gift carries more weight than ever before.

So what’s the best way to send holiday wishes to your clients? Here are five ideas to spark the Santa within you.

 

1. Let’s start with the basics: Send them a holiday greeting card

There’s no better time than the holiday season to strengthen relationships with clients, and sending a personalized card is a surefire way to spread some festive cheer. But do you go with a traditional printed card or an e-greeting? Well, there are merits to both. A printed card is more personal and gives your client something tangible to keep hold of, whereas an e-card is a better option if your business is big on its green initiatives. Consider your clients’ preferences and their industry (if they’re in the tech or eco industry, you might lean towards a digital card), then decide which is the better option for you.

TIP: Want your client to remember you? Try placing your business card inside the holiday card.

 

2. Give them food for thought

On the first day of Christmas, a small business gave to me….some deliciously festive gingerbread men! Has a certain ring to it, doesn’t it? Consider sending some holiday-themed treats for your clients and their staff to enjoy. From cupcakes, to cookies, to more creative options—everybody appreciates some yuletide delicacies at this time of year. After all, the post-holiday diets don’t begin until January, right?

TIP: Consider branding your baked goods to make sure your business is firmly imprinted on your clients’ mind.

 

3. Host a festive mixer

Make your business stand out from the crowd by hosting a holiday shindig for your clients. Having live interaction with your customers—without being in a formal, business-like environment—will remind everyone that building good, long-lasting relationships with your clients is at the core of your business. Post pictures of the event online and share the snaps with clientele via social media, your blog and e-newsletters.

TIP: Consider hiring a photo booth to up your party’s fun factor.

 

4. Send them a gift

We buy holiday gifts for our family, friends and employees—and some of us even offer a token gesture to the post man—so why shouldn’t we give a little something to our clients? Here are some present ideas your clients will love:

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  An industry-related book

  
  


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  Seasonal candies

  
  


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  Gift certificate/restaurant voucher

  
  


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  A gift basket

  
  


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  A 2014 organizer or diary

  
  


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  A bottle of wine or champagne

  
  


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  A personalized coffee cup or mug

  
  


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  A special pen or pencil

  
  


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  A custom flash drive

  
  

TIP: Don’t give anything that might be misconstrued by the recipient. When selecting corporate gifts, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and buy ‘safer’ gifts that are sure to please everyone.

 

5. Make a charitable donation on their behalf

One of the best things about the holiday season is the emphasis on ‘giving’, so why not make a charitable donation on your clients behalf to a charity of their choice? Save the cash that would otherwise have been spent on a gift, party or luncheon, and instead, make a donation to those who are less fortunate. In doing so, you’ll be interacting with your clients in a genuine and meaningful way.

TIP: Continue your charitable-giving beyond the holiday season and into the new year. Not only will it make a great impression to your clients, but it’ll also make you feel good.