Season’s Greetings, Reach Out & Keep In Touch
As the holiday season begins and 2015 comes to a close this is a great time to reach out, connect and reconnect to friends, family and professional networks. What can be nicer than receiving a season’s greetings from someone you’ve not heard from in a while?
Networking frequently gets a bad rap because people misinterpret the intention. What it’s not; a means to an end, a job search or getting someone to do you a favor. What is it? Relationship building with people that you want to continue to stay connected to. The goal is mutual, with both parties seeking to remain in touch.
Why bring this up now? This time of year presents a unique opportunity to reach out to you networks to exchange holiday/new year greetings. It’s a great time to catch up with people, update them on what’s going on in your life or simply share wishes for Happy Holidays or Happy New Year. As a professional, this time honored tradition began with holiday greetings cards, annually sent to friends, colleagues and business partners (hundreds of contacts). I am happy to say that my tradition has taken a turn for the better (easier, faster, less time) with the developments in technology and social media.
I now utilize technology and social media for my annual season’s greetings. Each year I create a unique e-greeting that has now become a signature item. My colleagues now expect and look forward to my annual Boston based, snowy e-card. For new connections, they are thankful for my personal outreach and send back greetings and wishes to stay in touch. It’s a way to stay connected, a topic of conversation and a unique way to differentiate yourself, simply by remembering those people that are important in your life.
As personal and informal as this may seem, it’s important to consider your audience and your content. I have a few editions of my holiday greetings that reflect my relationship with each person. It can be as simple as, “Wishing you a happy holiday and a joyful new year”, or for those individuals that you know well, “Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful holiday and a very happy new year”. Be thoughtful and professional about your messaging. It speaks volumes about who you are and leaves a lasting impression.
So take this opportunity to share your holiday spirit with those you want to stay connected with. Give them the gift of simply sharing season’s greetings and your interest in staying connected.
Wintry Wishes. May this season bring you the gifts of peace, hope and joy.