Sure, it’s only October, and Halloween treats and costumes are still in stores, but so is holiday stuff! You know what happens every year. You wait until the last minute and then scramble to get your cards and gifts out in time.

Do you ever wonder if it’s worth the effort? Well, let me tell you that it is!

Full disclosure: our company markets custom branded cards and gifts for the holidays to businesses and nonprofit organizations. But, even if we didn’t, I’d still send out holiday stuff.

And here’s why.

 

 

TOP 10 Reasons Why Sending Holiday Cards and Gifts Can Reinforce Your Brand:

1.   Touches base and reconnects with the people who have lapsed or lost touch.

2.   Shows appreciation to the customers who have contributed to your success in the past year.

3.   Shows appreciation to employees, without whom, you couldn’t do what you do.

4.   Stays top of mind with the customers you’d like to retain and grow.

5.   It’s expected. Do you notice when you don’t hear from certain people?

6.   Shares your enthusiasm for the spirit of the season.

7.   Sets you apart from your competition.

8.   Builds your brand. What a great way to make a positive brand impression, especially when you customize your cards and gifts with your organization’s logo and brand messaging.

9.   Reaches out to prospects to demonstrate your interest in them.

10. Makes your organization memorable when you send something funny, meaningful, or different.

I’ll share one short story about the holidays. Years ago when I worked as the senior marketer for a large organization, I received calls from new vendors all the time. I asked my assistant to get back to each one, indicating that we didn’t need that product or service now, but would bookmark their Web sites for future reference. I always checked my file cabinet and Internet bookmarked sites first when researching new products or services.

The week before Christmas, I received a call from one of those suppliers asking me if she could drop off a holiday gift. What was I to say?

She showed up with the nicest box of gourmet chocolates and sat with me for about 15 minutes introducing herself. That’s all it took.

There’s a psychology involved in the need to reciprocate when we receive something from others. In the new year, I asked her to quote on a graphic design project, which she did.

And.. . she did a great job! I worked with her regularly after that. Plus, we’re still in touch, even though I’ve moved countries.

The bottom line? The holidays tend to bring out the best in people. It’s not a crime to capitalize on that and reinforce your brand with your target audiences.

One more thing… Hanukkah starts the evening of November 27 this year and ends on December 5. You’ll want to get your cards and gifts out early for Jewish colleagues, customers, supporters, and friends.

P.S. We’d be happy to help your organization with its custom holiday cards and promotional product gifts this year! Why not make it easy? We work within your budget.

Do you send out holiday cards and gifts? What has worked well for you in the past?