What better time to reconnect with your sphere than the holidays? The end of the year is when old bonds can be rekindled, and new ones forged for the next. No matter whether you’ve kept in contact on a monthly basis or haven’t spoken since January, there are a few different tried-and-true methods for gracefully touching base, and showing your gratitude.
As always, genuine relationships are built on just that; sincerity. Speak from the heart, and approach every interaction without expectations. Some general best practices to follow are:
– Tone: Don’t lead with business, and don’t angle for an instant return. Simply extend your greetings and warm wishes, and should the conversation turn more professional, always come from a place of offering value.
– Personalization: Clients can spot a canned message from a mile away; especially if they’re receiving variations of the same from other businesses they have interacted with over the course of the year. Be mindful of diversity, religious celebrations, and include specific details that demonstrate real consideration.
Ready to reconnect? Here are three ways to do so:
Reconnecting on Social Media
Check out the designs available in Command! The Holiday Greetings kit is customizable depending on popular holidays, or can be made completely bespoke. Make sure to pair it with caring copy, and your clients will feel seen and appreciated. Some examples are below:
– Season’s greetings! Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with relaxation and sacred time alongside those that matter the most. If you find yourself in times of need, I am one message away.
– Happy holidays! Whether you are baking cookies for Santa, lighting the menorah or kinara, or anything in between, this holiday season you are in my heart and mind. As the year comes to a close, I am here to help with any questions or resource needs you may have.
– ‘Tis the season! No matter your holiday season traditions, this is the time to hold those nearest to you a bit tighter (perhaps metaphorically if you’re socially distanced)! I wish you the happiest of holidays, filled with laughter, amazing food, and spectacular company. For everything else, I am one message away!
Reconnecting over Email
Think about how often we’re all in our inboxes. Email can be a powerful tool for consistent brand recognition! Here are several content ideas that you could build upon to provide your sphere with some extra value:
– A holiday-themed gift guide featuring local vendors
– A calendar of seasonal local events
– Recipe guides for popular holiday treats
– A mini-feature on one or more clients, describing how they celebrate this time of year and their family traditions (hint: this is perfect opportunity to also showcase the new house you helped them purchase earlier in the year!)
Reconnecting on the Phone
Picking up the phone and having a real-time conversation is still the ultimate way to establish a personal and direct connection. However, it’s important not to just shoot from the hip; having a purpose behind your call is essential. Otherwise, you may come off unprofessional. Here’s an example script provided from KW MAPS Coaching President, Monica Reynolds:
You: Hi, this is ________ with Keller Williams. Did I catch you at a good time? Do you have a few minutes?
Client: (responds)
You: Great! The purpose of my call is to say hello and check in with you and your family. How are you doing? How is your family? (if appropriate: How are the kids doing with schooling or homeschooling?)
Client: (responds)
You: Everything going well with your job and your company?
Client: (responds)
You: Since I have you on the phone, do you have any real estate questions I could answer for you about this incredible real estate market?
Client: (responds)
You: (answers any questions) Let me ask you as part of my customer service, what is your current interest rate?
This is a perfect balance between extending genuine care, while also making yourself available to address questions they may not even realize they have. In any of the above cases, always leading with compassion will help put your best foot forward – and that’s something all of you are familiar with doing all year long!