5 Tips To Make December More Productive

When you’re at work, work: This may sound simple enough but sometimes the office environment in December can be extremely distracting. Everyone is talking about their preparations for the holidays. While there is certainly nothing wrong with that, don’t let your mind wander too much. Offices normally are closed for a few days in late December and many people also take vacation time, so their time spent in the office is limited. Make the most of it. Don’t do your online shopping during work hours. Use the shortened month to reach out to customers, tighten up your 2015 plans, motivate your staff or any other productive initiative. Leverage the time in the office as much as possible, as others are looking to do the same.

Celebrate with your customers: December is a great time to meet with customers face to face. You can show your support by buying them lunch or dinner while cementing your relationship. This is a very productive way to show your appreciation for their business and also talk a little future business with them. This maximizes your time while giving your customers face time, all in the holiday spirit. Nothing beats a face-to-face meeting and December gives a perfect reason.

Reconnect with dormant customers: Many times calling on customers that have stopped doing business with your organization is awkward. You are waiting for the right opening. December is it. What better way to reconnect with a dormant customer than reaching out during the holiday season to show you want to start a new relationship? It’s a great ice-breaker and relationship rebuilder. You’d be surprised that when people are in the holiday spirit they are more forgiving and more open to reconnect. Give it a try.

Use downtime for planning: Although much business is still conducted in December and you need to try and take full advantage of that, there also is some downtime as customers and work associates take time off. Use this time wisely to evaluate the year that is closing and what you can do better in the coming year. Most professionals are so busy reacting to problems during the course of the year they rarely get the chance to actually plan without interruption. Take advantage of any downtime to take a long look at your business, your structure, your go-to-market strategy and even your competition. Come the second week of January, the crazy cycle will begin again.

Show your employees appreciation: Last but not least, don't forget your loyal employees. Spend some time with them. Take them to lunch or even dinner. Everyone is running around like mad during most of the year but December gives you the opportunity to show your appreciation for them in a meaningful way. Don’t assume they feel appreciated. Invest your time in them when you have the chance and you will have a more productive work staff.