Category Archives: Leadership

Here are some marketing questions for business owners and leaders to ponder to truly rock 2025. Start the year off right. First, ask and answer these questions to help your team succeed by aligning your collective efforts. Then, optimize your team’s performance with clarity, collaboration, conviction, consistency and connection — and 2025 will be your year. And finally, don’t forget to regularly track your progress.

Ask Yourself These Marketing Questions

What are my business goals?

    To focus efforts and increase success rates, make sure your goals are SMART. SMART goals are specific, measurable, actionable, relevant and time bound. Areas in which to set goals are around your financial target, growth, operations and your team. In addition, set goals for yourself as a business leader. These goals can be around leadership, development, your role, work life balance, fitness, mental wellness, etc.

    Does my brand and messaging reflect what my business is today?

    Is your brand resonating with your team and your best target? Think about this. You have great clients or customers, a strong, best-of-class team, and a differentiating product or service. So is your brand a garage band? Or have you evolved your brand and messaging to reflect what your business has become?

    What is my marketing budget?

    Set your marketing budget for next year. This is one of the most important marketing questions for several reasons. Most companies’ marketing budget for 2025 is between 7–10% of revenue. Then you can align your activities and expectations once your number determined.

    Who are my best customers/clients?

    If you have data gathered, this will be easier. If not, you still need to answer this marketing question. Key metrics to consider include purchase frequency and recency. Also review the total revenue generated by that client or customer for the year. Further, consider customer loyalty — your net promoter score (NPS). In other words, how likely are they to recommend your brand to others?

    How am I going to achieve set goals targeted at my best prospects in 2025?

    Now you’re asking yourself one of the key marketing questions. From here you can develop your marketing road map. With your ideal customers identified, you can then tailor your marketing efforts to their preferences and needs. In addition, the budget you developed is also in play here, as marketing initiatives must be within that budget.

    Do I have the right marketing team in place to rock my business in the new year?

    For the most part, successful business leaders realize marketing should be done by professionals. They themselves should not be the marketers. Thus, evaluate your team and identify who is qualified to lead and execute your marketing team efforts to reach your goals. Most small businesses do not have that team internally. And most small business leaders know that an office manager isn’t their Chief Marketing Officer — that position should not be leading or executing marketing strategies and initiatives.

    These Answers Will Start Your New Year Off Right

    Cheers to a new year. Going forward, we are wishing you even greater business success in 2025. In addition, our wish for you and your team is to achieve optimal mental and physical health and happiness.


    It is not Marketing/Sales, it is Marketing and Sales. In one week, two things happened that spurred me into sharing that marketing and sales are in fact two separate functions. That work together.

    Marketing and Sales, Thing One

    A former client who is a successful business owner shared at a recent weekly team meeting, that his team discussed the need for a marketing strategy and a stronger brand presence. The salesperson on the team was pushing hard for additional marketing resources. And he wanted to lead the charge. They “went back and forth about the where, how and the value of a stronger brand presence.”

    The business owner was skeptical because he had grown his business traditionally from word of mouth. (Clearly too much time had passed since we worked together.)

    He continued his story to me, “Front Porch Marketing was the first marketing resource I thought of to visit with and have a clearer picture of what needs to be done and in which priority.” For that, we are honored.

    Marketing and Sales, Thing Two.

    I attended a networking group event. The speaker was a small business consultant who shared ways for business owners to increase revenue and improve profitability, among other things. The presentation was great until we got to the slide that included the line, “Marketing/Sales.”

    I thought “It is not Marketing/Sales.” They are not the same thing. They are not to be lumped together. These are two very distinct functions that both contribute to growing a business.

    Why You Need Marketing

    Marketing is no longer just an option for small businesses and nonprofits who want to grow. I am happy to share one-on-one my experiences over the last two years on this. Occasional marketing effort does not make your business grow. A marketing foundation must be built, strategized and utilized. You need consistency, conviction, and connection for marketing to succeed. These three things are must-haves when you’re marketing your business in the year 2024.

    How Sales is Different From Marketing

    Sales people and departments are responsible for generating new leads, converting those leads and closing deals. Sales leaders look at the ideal target customer or client and the product or service they are selling, and make a match.

    First, there are inside sales: looking at existing customers and how they can grow their business. These sales people are also converting inbound calls and emails to direct business.

    Then there are outside sales. This team’s approach focuses on face-to-face interaction with potential customers. They do this by attending targeted conferences and events. Building their network and relationships is the goal.

    How Marketing and Sales Teams Can Work Together

    At Front Porch Marketing, we sometimes work directly with sales leaders. Again, for that we are honored and grateful. Sales people overall have a defined pipeline, and may rely on the marketing people to feed that pipeline. These sales leaders know they need marketing. They do suggest initiatives to support their agendas. But most share what they are trying to achieve and trust that we will strategize and implement what is right for business growth.

    We also work with smart, small business owners and nonprofit leaders, who believe they need to elevate their brand and grow brand awareness to grow their toplines. That’s marketing. Few of these types of companies have an in-house marketing team though. They may have a person or two in marketing, but even this small crew cannot manage or specialize in all the marketing things they might need. And that’s where we typically come in.

    I could go on and on about the difference in marketing and sales functions. But alas, I must get up bright and early to French braid an 11-year old’s hair for school. So cheers to all of you marketing people and sales people growing the top and bottom lines, working with those you love, for those you love. All the while, taking care of your loves. Like we do.


    What’s your business growth opportunity for next year? Identify it. Now is the time. Q4 is upon us. Before we know it, it will be January 2025. So take the time now to really contemplate where you want to take your business next. Once you have that nailed down, you’ll have a clear place to steer yourself in Q1.

    Your Growth Opportunity Is Not Swayed by Circumstances

    Your business growth opportunity for next should be based on YOUR business. Not so much on outside forces happening in the world. Despite the economy. Or the uncertainty due to the election. Strong brands will survive and thrive in 2025. What makes you a strong brand?

    Uncover Opportunities With Probing Questions

    Ask yourself some of these questions when you review your business in Q4. These questions will help you determine your success for 2025 based on your successes in 2024.

    1. Review your 2024 key clients or customers’ successes. Where have you seen the most business growth this past year?

    Make a list. This will give you insight into where your business growth opportunity might be for next year. Looks for patterns and trends in your business’ success. You might just be getting started in some area of your business that will continue to pay off.

    2. Is your team convicted that the brand is important?

    Review your brand’s foundation. Is your brand strong? Does your leadership team articulate your brand clearly at every internal touchpoint? Your audience needs to be able to recognize you and count on you. They want to see you as the voice of authority, every time they turn to you for answers.

    3. Are you communicating consistently?

    Consistent communication is key to having a strong brand, and a strong presence in the marketplace. If you are not communicating clearly and consistently about your brand, you are diluting your brand and the competency of your organization.

    4. Does your target care about what your brand stands for?

    The stronger the emotional connection to your brand, the more likely the target will be predisposed to your organization. What were your successes with your audience this past year? Plan to do more of whatever that was.

    Other questions to ask yourself about your business, looking for your business growth opportunities in 2025:

    • Are you leveraging your senior team’s strengths?
    • What are your strategies? Define these and then everything else should fall under that.
    • What are your holes in marketing resources? What do you need help with?

    Pro-Tips For Growth

    Identifying your business growth opportunities is just your first step to a successful 2024. Reviewing 2024, there are areas where we see success for small to midsize businesses and nonprofits in 2025. Make sure you have this Pro-Tip list covered in Q4 this year, and follow the path to uncover your own insights and build your business in 2025. If you need help along the way, Front Porch has your back.

    • Identify your growth opportunity.
    • Make sure you have the team needed to realize your goals for your clients.
    • Have a plan. Be focused. A marketing plan is important to maximize resources and reduce unneeded spend.
    • Sharpen messaging. Review your message map. Make edits where necessary.
    • Be strategic. Define strategies and then tactics that will help you accomplish the strategies.
    • Remember, tactically, less is more.

    On the Porch, May is “grad …” month. Believe it or not, it’s not just graduates and graduating. “Grad” definitely has to do with branding and marketing. Overall, it’s about great celebrations for our Porch team, family and clients.

    Grad Is For Graduation Graduates

    We have two kiddos graduating from kindergarten. Rock on, twins! And one team mate has an accomplished high school graduate going on to do great things in business school and in golf. Our intern, Lillian, is planning to be an August MBA grad. Plus, I have a college graduate — go on with your bad self, son. I couldn’t be prouder.

    Grades Start With Grad

    All those with school age children feel me here. That final grade card is coming to a mailbox near you. We see how hard you worked! And, oh yeah, the standardized test results. How’d we all do on those AP tests and finals? Whew! What a feeling! (It’s over. At least for now.)

    Gradual Branding and Marketing Changes

    It’s rad to be grad! Gradual, that is. Taking a measured approach on marketing pays off. Our clients are embracing incremental changes in strategy and tactics this year. This deliberate and consistent path to progress allows our clients’ brands and teams to experience sustainable enhancement. It is a more stable approach to marketing resulting in visible, continuous improvement. Slow and steady wins the race I always say.

    Grad … okay … GraTitude, But It Works!

    We are so grateful for our team, clients and advocates, here at the Porch. Amidst all the grad chaos that May brings, we are celebrating those who value that we continue to do what we love, with those we love, for those we love, while taking care of our loves. May was something else and we enjoyed every chaotic moment of it. Congrats Grads!


    In the dynamic world of business-to-business interactions, forging strong B2B partnerships is essential for long-term success and growth. These strategic alliances not only expand market reach but also foster innovation and mutual support. However, building strong B2B partnerships requires careful planning, effective communication, and a commitment to shared goals. Here are some key strategies that businesses can implement to cultivate meaningful and enduring partnerships in the B2B landscape.

    Establish Clear Objectives and Alignment in B2B Partnerships

    At the core of any successful partnership lies a shared understanding of objectives and alignment of goals. Before embarking on a collaboration, take the time to define what success looks like for both parties. Clarify mutual expectations, identify common challenges, and outline how each partner can contribute to achieving shared objectives. For example, a technology company seeking to enhance its cybersecurity offerings may form a strategic alliance with a cybersecurity firm to jointly develop integrated solutions that address both data analysis and security concerns.

    Foster Open and Transparent Communication

    Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship, and B2B partnerships are no exception. Cultivate an environment of open dialogue and transparency, where both parties feel comfortable expressing their needs, concerns, and ideas. Regular check-ins, status updates, and feedback sessions help ensure that everyone remains on the same page throughout the partnership journey. For instance, a manufacturing company building strong relationships with suppliers ensures a steady supply of raw materials or components, fostering reliability and efficiency in the production process.

    Prioritize Mutual Benefit and Value Creation for B2B Partnerships

    Successful B2B partnerships are ones where both parties derive tangible value from the collaboration. Focus on identifying areas of mutual benefit and value creation, where each partner can leverage their strengths to achieve shared goals. Whether it’s access to new markets, innovative technologies, or complementary expertise, seek opportunities to create win-win scenarios that drive mutual growth and success. For example, a software company may partner with a network of resellers to distribute its products to different geographic regions or industries, expanding its market reach while providing the resellers with a lucrative revenue stream.

    Invest in Relationship-Building and Trust

    Building strong partnerships takes time and effort, and investing in relationship-building is essential for long-term success. Take the time to get to know your partner’s business, culture, and values, and foster personal connections with key stakeholders. Building trust is paramount, so be reliable, transparent, and honest in your interactions. Demonstrate a commitment to the partnership by following through on promises, addressing concerns promptly, and actively seeking ways to add value to your partner’s business. For instance, marketing and co-marketing partnerships allow businesses to collaborate on initiatives that amplify both parties’ reach and visibility, such as co-creating content or launching co-branded campaigns.

    Embrace Collaboration and Adaptability in Your B2B Partnerships

    Flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities for successful B2B partnerships. Embrace a spirit of collaboration and be open to exploring new ideas, strategies, and opportunities together. Remain agile in responding to changing market dynamics, evolving customer needs, and emerging industry trends. By fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, you position your partnership for long-term relevance and resilience in the face of uncertainty. For example, companies often form partnerships to enhance their product offerings or expand into new markets, leveraging each other’s expertise to develop innovative solutions that address evolving customer demands.

    Leverage Expertise Through Strategic Partnerships

    Leveraging expertise through strategic partnerships can provide B2B companies with specialized skills and knowledge to enhance their offerings and market presence. Collaborating with a marketing firm, for example, can offer significant benefits for businesses looking to elevate their brand visibility, generate leads, and drive revenue growth. A B2B partnership with a marketing firm can provide access to a range of marketing services, including strategic planning, digital marketing, content creation, and campaign management. By tapping into the expertise of marketing professionals, B2B companies can develop tailored marketing strategies and tactics that resonate with their target audience and align with their business objectives.

    For instance, a professional services company seeking to expand its market reach may partner with a marketing firm specializing in B2B lead generation and digital marketing. Through this partnership, the services company gains access to a team of marketing experts who can develop targeted campaigns, optimize online presence including SEO, and leverage data analytics to identify and nurture leads effectively. By outsourcing marketing efforts to a trusted partner, the services company can focus on core business operations while benefiting from the marketing firm’s industry knowledge, resources, and experience.

    Cultivating Strong B2B Partnerships is a Win-Win

    In the interconnected world of B2B commerce, building strong B2B partnerships is not just advantageous — it’s imperative for sustainable growth and competitiveness. By following these strategies and incorporating examples of specific partnership types, including collaborations with marketing firms, businesses can cultivate meaningful and enduring partnerships that drive mutual success. As you navigate the intricacies of B2B relationships, remember that the strength of your partnerships lies in your ability to collaborate, communicate, and innovate together.


    Networking is perhaps an undervalued, but critically important aspect of marketing. In the world of marketing, staying ahead of trends, understanding emerging technologies, and leveraging innovative strategies are immensely important. However, amidst the whirlwind of digital campaigns, content creation, and market analysis, one fundamental aspect remains critically vital: networking. This week, as some of our team is attending the Marketing 2.0 Conference, let’s delve into the significance of networking within our industry, particularly through conferences and conventions. 

    Networking is a Gateway to Opportunities 

    Networking serves as a gateway to a multitude of opportunities; including partnerships, client leads, mentorship, and the exchange of ideas. More often than not, who you know can be as important as what you know. Creating meaningful connections can catapult your career and business to new heights. 

    The Value of Face-to-Face Interactions 

    While social media and digital platforms offer convenient ways to connect, they cannot always replicate the value of face-to-face interactions. Conferences and conventions provide a unique environment for marketers to engage in real-time conversations, offering a depth of communication that virtual encounters cannot match. The exchange of ideas, the use of body language and the immediate feedback of in-person discussions enrich the networking experience and can foster stronger, more meaningful connections. 

    Networking Means Learning from the Best 

    Attending conferences and conventions exposes you to impressive leaders and innovators in the marketing world. Keynote speeches, classes, and panel discussions provide exceptional insights and knowledge, highlighting cutting-edge trends that have yet to become mainstream. These learning opportunities not only inspire but also equip you with fresh ideas and approaches that can be applied to your own business. 

    A Platform for Visibility 

    Participating in these events offers an invaluable platform to raise your personal or brand’s visibility within the industry. Presenting a paper, leading a workshop, or simply engaging in discussions can position you as a thought leader. In turn this can open doors to media coverage, speaking opportunities, and collaborations. The exposure gained can significantly enhance your reputation and credibility among peers and potential clients. 

    The Ripple Effect of Sharing 

    One of the most underrated aspects of networking at conferences is the ripple effect it creates. Sharing your own experiences, challenges, and success stories not only contributes to the collective knowledge but also helps in creating meaningful connections. This mutual exchange fosters a sense of community and support within the industry. 

    Looking Ahead 

    As our team prepares to immerse ourselves in the upcoming Marketing 2.0 Conference, the focus extends beyond just attending. It’s about actively participating, engaging with new faces, and absorbing every bit of knowledge and insight available. The importance of networking in marketing cannot be overstated, and conferences and conventions represent a place for nurturing connections that could shape the future of your business. 


    This is anniversary number 13 and it is sweet and humbling. And I am forever grateful for our team, clients and advocates.

    13 is a lucky number.

    It represents fearlessness. And, although at times fearlessness is hard amidst all that is going on with our business, clients, family, and in the world, for our business and me it is a guidepost.

    Today I’m sharing 13 branding and marketing truths that still ring true, to celebrate our 13th year of doing what we love.

    1. Branding – Start-ups and small to midsize businesses who have defined and live their brand architecture achieve their business goals.
    2. Conviction – Successful businesses and business leaders articulate their brand. They know it stands for a specific and meaningful promise. These business leaders champion it internally as well.
    3. Consistency – Our clients deliver on their brand at every point of contact, internally and externally. They understand if they don’t it will dilute the competency of the organization.
    4. Connection – The relevancy and persuasiveness of a brand must be realized by the business’ target. Emotional connections make target audiences more predisposed to your company and its products or services.
    5. Knowing you are not your customer.
    6. Yet, knowing who your key client or customer targets are key.
    7. Defining and monitoring the competitive landscape.
    8. Creating and integrating key messages into all communications.
    9. Being grateful for your relationships. Give back to those who support you. Encouraging them and providing help to them professionally or their businesses along the way.
    10. Networking – This doesn’t have to be large groups, weekly or monthly meetings. But those help. Always be open to meeting new people and trying to help or connect with them.
    11. Email marketing is the bomb. Don’t underestimate its power.
    12. Having and trusting strong account managers, creative directors and content specialists. They make magic happen.
    13. Work with people who you love, for those you love, creating and executing work you love, whilst taking care of your loves.

    LinkedIn continues to be a powerful sales and marketing tool. With other social networks manipulating algorithms, LinkedIn ranks in the top two where organic social media marketing is still effective.

    And the user demographics for LinkedIn are a proof point for brands and business leaders to utilize this tool now to engage their audience and grow their business.

    What Works on LinkedIn

    Strategy and other things are critical to maximize results for brands and personal pages on LinkedIn.

    • Provide value. Heavy, brand only content isn’t effective. Audiences want value. Be engaging. Tell stories. Share advice. Use testimonials. Give perspective on industry trends. Be a storyteller. Share what your team is passionate about at work and personally.
    • Posting cadence. Have a content calendar and be committed to posting frequency.
    • Message and visual consistency. Make sure you are following your message map, content buckets, brand style guide and visual guidelines.
    • Encourage team members to interact with your brand page. As we always say, you can’t market externally if your team isn’t educated and engaged internally. Turn each team member into a brand champion. Provide them with the knowledge on how they can market the brand. Make sure content shared on LinkedIn is engaging to them. They should want to like and share the brand’s posts.

    Where to Start On LinkedIn

    At a minimum, business leaders on LinkedIn should:

    • Have an updated headshot.
    • Upload a branded timeline cover.
    • Log into LinkedIn three times a week.
    • Like team members’ and brand’s post.
    • Accept relevant and meaningful connections.
    • Reach out and ask for connections to team members, clients and other contacts you meet at conferences, conventions, etc.
    • Monitor competition’s brand pages to get a snapshot of the competitive landscape.

    Interested in assistance utilizing LinkedIn for your business? For you as a business leader? The time is now. Front Porch Marketing is here to help you succeed on this important business platform.


    It’s our time on the Porch for reflecting on 2023

    Ah, reflecting on 2023. It always amazes me this team finds commonality in their reflections each year despite not seeing each other’s until this blog is published. This year is no exception.

    2022 was all about rocking steady in the calm of a year which allowed us to catch our breath a bit following several years of big events, big changes and big milestones both individually and in the world.

    Boy, are we grateful for that quiet(ish) 2022. 2023 was a year full of learning to embrace change, accept challenges, give ourselves (and others) grace, honor the lessons we learn in difficulty and to find light in the darkness. Reflecting on 2023 brought some tears, some smiles and big hugs all around.

    Julie Porter – Chief Rocker

    Reminiscing on a year of learning, leadership and service, I am reminded of the old saying, “you don’t know what you don’t know.”

    On the Porch, we operated with the same great gang of seasoned professionals and added six interns throughout the year. Interns always make us better.

    My daughter and I continue to find joy in volunteering together at Dallas Animal Services (DAS). I was honored to continue my Volunteer Chair gig for the 30th Annual JWA Christmas Bazaar, board work with Faith Family Education Foundation, and host committee duties for the Grant Halliburton Foundation. There is no better challenge to accept than being able to serve others.

    Proud of my boy who finished his undergrad degree in December and started his master’s program this month. He had quite a year and met it head on.

    Reflecting on 2023 and looking forward for this year, I will continue to lean into difficulty. I’ll take calculated risks, focus on my own well-being and understand that growth can’t happen without resistance. All the while, celebrating working with this rockin’ team and our amazing clients.

    Lillian Cloud – Intern

    In 2023, I’ve experienced significant change. I completed my undergraduate education, relocated to a different city, started graduate school, and began a new job. This year has instilled in me the importance of embracing change and finding solace in the unknown. I’ve learned not to compare my post-graduation journey with that of others.

    My internship has reinforced the need to trust myself and my decisions. The team I have the privilege to work with has been exceptionally supportive, and I relish the opportunity to learn from each of them. I often wonder, “Why should I be trusted with this responsibility?” or “how could my work be good enough?” This experience has shown me I’ve earned these chances to believe in myself, and has taught me to take pride in my work.

    Christine Finnegan – Media Rocker

    This past year, I aspired to live a more purposeful life by discovering my passions and values and using them to create a fulfilling and meaningful existence. I did this by implementing the following:

    1. Continual Learning: Embracing a Lifetime of Growth. …
    2. Mindfulness: Living in the Present. …
    3. Relationships: Building Meaningful Connections.

    After reflecting on 2023, and as we are at the dawn of a new year I will continue to live in the moment, marvel at the world around me, and nurture the relationships that define who I am.

    Alison Moreno – Rock Collector

    2023 was filled with its ups and downs. My husband unexpectedly lost his job in August, and even though I was still working, I wasn’t working enough to provide much for our family. That pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me realize there is much more I can do while still being the best wife and mother I can be.

    There were many rough days, but we were able to recognize the good things we had and to stay positive until he ultimately found an amazing job. The downs in 2023 sparked my ambition and brought to life many hopes and plans. Moving into 2024 I’m excited to set my goals in motion and to see what the new year has in store for me professionally, and for my family.

    Natalie Rosga – Rock Enthusiast

    2023 has been a year of change. My littles are officially kindergarteners. While it is exciting to watch them grow and learn, my momma heart is a little sad as they start to gain more independence. It has also meant more “me” time during the week for work or the personal things that bring me joy. <Insert happy dance.>

    It’s also been a year of becoming more faithful including finding a new church home that has welcomed my family with open arms. In 2024, I am excited to continue making the conscious effort to be joyful and find the positive in each and every situation.

    Lea Ann Allen – Swiss Army Rock

    2023 snuck in softly and then caused a loud ruckus! My youngest kid is finishing high school and furiously applying for colleges while playing in umpteen golf tournaments that I spent much of the year driving him to. I’m grateful he passed the test and now has his license! The brutal summer that cooked my tomato plants is making me rethink gardening. A couple rounds of COVID at my house brought everything to a grinding halt. And the birth of our first grandbaby made me feel very mortal. I felt I could never catch my breath so if I am being honest, reflecting on 2023, I am grateful that it is over. Whew! But, through it all, my sweet supportive friends and teammates at Front Porch helped me persevere.

    Vicky Gouge – Design Rockczar

    This year was a series of highs and lows. I turned 50 in August, had a 4th grader with a recent ADHD diagnosis (not surprised) and dyslexia (very surprised) and was finding a new norm post-divorce. I thought everything was moving in the usual ups and downs of life; until it wasn’t. I suffered a heart attack in early October. Suddenly I wasn’t invincible. Coming to terms with having a heart attack at age 50 has been heartbreaking, enlightening, eye-opening, depressing … all the above and much more. I’m still coming to terms with it. But the people I choose to surround myself with keep me focused, engaged and happy.

    I appreciate the engagement, the knowledge I gain and continue to pursue, and the support of this team. Julie has been a quiet, supportive and thoughtful ear and a steadfast leader of our team. There’s a reason we accept people to come into our lives at certain times, and I’m thankful for my “givers gain” Front Porch family. I, Charlie and family are doing well thanks to the continued love and outreach of our friends and family. Here’s to a fabulous 2024 and much success to all. With many, we can succeed.

    Reflecting on 2023 to build a better 2024

    From all of us on the Porch, may 2024 be filled with health, happiness, love and learning for you and yours. Cherish working with people who make you better. Celebrate wins along the way. Find the light, be there for others and rock challenges with grit and grace. Happy New Year!


    The holiday season is in full swing, and chances are you have already finalized the details for any holiday appreciation gifts you plan to send to your clients, but have you thought about how you are going to celebrate your team this season? If the answer is no, there is no reason to push the panic button just yet.

    How to Show Appreciation During the Holidays

    Showing appreciation doesn’t have to mean grand gestures or gifts. In fact, sometimes, a small act of kindness means the most. Here are a few ideas to help you get started.

    1. Handwritten Cards
      Don’t overlook the simple act of a personalized note to celebrate your team members. We live in a world where texts and emails are our main form of communication. And typically, what lands in our home mailboxes are bills and advertisements. What if your team open their mailboxes to a card just for them expressing your gratitude for their hard work and commitment and closing with a happy holiday message?
    2. Thoughtful Gift
      You may want to think about adding a small gift to your handwritten note. Remember to take into consideration what your team members like to do outside of the office. An avid reader may enjoy a new book or a gift card to purchase the newest read from their favorite author. Don’t forget to incorporate the meaning of the gift into your note.
    3. Extra Time Off Work
      What is there never enough of during the holidays? Time! This season can be stressful, and giving your team an extra day or afternoon off from work may help ease their physical or mental load. Maybe it means they can spend extra time with a loved one, finish up last-minute shopping or decorating, or just take a few hours to themselves to recharge.
    4. Celebrate Your Team With a Team Luncheon
      No, this is not a potluck team luncheon. We just talked about how time is a valuable commodity during the holidays. No one wants to add to their evening activity a last-minute trip to the store or an extra hour in the kitchen. They want to enjoy the holidays with less stress! Consider catering a meal at the office or a trip to a nice restaurant with a reserved room. If your team works remotely, a restaurant gift card or a gift basket delivery with their favorite holiday treat is a great option too.

    Celebrate the Team That Supports Your Business

    As you start to assemble your own ideas, keep in mind that we all want to be appreciated, especially around the holidays. Your small gesture can make a big difference. And it may create a team tradition for years to come. Happy Holidays from your Front Porch Team!