Collaboration is inevitable, whether in our careers, schooling or social life. This past semester I have worked to find balance between my schooling and work. Through this, I’ve gained valuable insight into how brainstorming, critiques and suggestions are all necessary to reach meaningful results.  

Growing up, I had a difficult time taking suggestions or criticism of my work. I was quite a perfectionist in that I couldn’t help but feel that any critiques were slightly personal. Yet, as I’ve grown creatively and gotten to work with other talented creatives, I’ve shifted my perspective on collaboration. My mindset has changed from previously becoming discouraged to now feeling motivated to improve. Here are some tips that have stuck with me that I keep in mind during any project I work on.  

Tip 1: Critiques are not a Criticism of your Creativity 

In my graphic design course, my work is regularly displayed to the class for my classmates to comment on. Going into my first critique session, I was terrified for my work to be perceived by others. But after listening to the critiques and making the changes to my work, I’m able to see both aesthetic and practical improvements. This has shown me that critiques should not undermine your creativity. Ultimately, you’ve already done the work that becomes the base for any critiques you may receive. You were able to create something worth discussing and that people want to see grow to its best potential. No project is perfect from the jump, and sometimes it takes multiple sets of eyes to notice things you haven’t.  

Tip 2: Don’t Hold Back Ideas  

Growing up, I tended to hold back my ideas unless I felt confident that they would impact the conversation at hand. I became hard on myself when it came to brainstorming, often thinking that if I shared an idea people didn’t use, it was a waste of time. Recently, I’ve come to learn how harsh I was on myself and now understand the value of sharing any relevant ideas that come to mind. You never know whether your idea will have that big impact unless it’s shared, and if it doesn’t, that’s ok! Most of the time, our ideas become catalysts for others to expand their thought process. Great solutions are discovered from bouncing ideas off of one another.  

Tip 3: Push Yourself to Think Past the Safe Choice 

The most important thing to ask yourself when working on a project is if the work is a good reflection of your company. This requires you to consider your audiences and stakeholders, recognizing what they want from your business and prioritizing that. By fully understanding your audience, you can experiment creatively with your messaging. Although it’s important to stick to a cohesive brand voice, don’t be afraid of creating content outside your norm. This could mean hopping onto current trends or trying out a new advertising campaign; regardless, audiences want to see fresh, entertaining content. This is another area in which conversation is key. Speaking with others and gathering multiple opinions is the best way to grow creatively without straying away from your brand image. 

Collaboration is the backbone of the creative process. With each critique or suggestion, we learn more about our craft and improve our skills. It’s important to trust those around you, for that trust fosters innovation and can motivate groups to work towards a common goal. So, don’t be afraid to speak your mind, ask questions and learn from others — you never know which ideas will spark successful content. 

When was the last time you embarked on producing video projects for a client? For most of us the probability is high as they aren’t every day, week or month projects. So, while video production is FUN and it’s important to be aware of video marketing trends, it can also be a hectic time. We might have a vision in our head of how we want the finished product to turn out, but it takes a lot of work to get there.

From the planning that takes place during preproduction, to shooting the content during production and editing the footage during postproduction it can all become a little overwhelming. Let’s spend a few minutes walking through the process from start to finish, so your next video project is smooth sailing.

Preproduction for Video Projects Is Important

Let the planning begin! All successful video projects start with a buttoned-up plan. While the list below might not be all-inclusive, it can be used as a springboard to get started.

• Kickoff Planning Meeting(s)
  First things first, you need to gather the key players to define the objective and goals of the video.
• Create a Project Overview.
  This document outlines the following elements of the shoot:
  • Objective
  • Goals
  • Project Scope
    • Video Content
    • Shoot Location, Duration, Dates and Delivery of Final Product
  • Estimate
    • This can encompass storyboarding/scripting, videographer costs (pre/production/post), photographer costs, project management, expenses (mileage, music, stock footage, meals, hair/makeup, wardrobe, meals, talent, etc.).
• Shoot Deliverables
  Once a video projects’ overview document and estimate has been client approved, it’s time to get busy on the deliverables.
  • Create a detailed project timeline and assign team responsibilities.
  • Secure the videographer and talent, photographer, hair/makeup and wardrobe (if needed).
  • Develop the script and storyboard.
  • Scout the location.
  • Schedule the shoot. Create a detailed timeline for the day(s) of filming. Make sure everyone knows when and where to be and include contact names and phone numbers.
  • And don’t forget the food. The last thing you want is a hangry team!

It’s Time to Create Your Video Project: Production

The plan is set, and it is time for filming to commence.

It’s finally time to implement all the careful planning that has taken place. The video team will arrive well before the talent to set up the camera equipment, lighting, mikes, teleprompter. The set will also need to be prepped for filming. That might mean setting up any props, adjusting furniture, etc.

Next comes the hair/makeup/wardrobe team and talent. While the video team is finalizing film prep, the talent is becoming camera ready.

The film crew, set and talent are ready so its time for a quick walk through to make sure everyone is comfortable with their roles and knows the process/filming order for the day. And remember, there are going to be hiccups. Set or script adjustments need to be made. Someone is running late. There is a wardrobe malfunction. Remember to breathe and that every problem has a solution.

So now…Quiet on the set! Action!  

Postproduction of Your Video Project

The film is ‘in the can’ and postproduction is ready to commence.

During this phase the videographer will sort and organize all of the raw footage, edit the video to tell your story, add graphics and voice and music tracks. When you are happy with the edited piece it is ready to share with your client for feedback.

Once client approved, you can then develop the different video formats needed and deliver the finished product for distribution through your various marketing channels.

Now that you know the roadmap for video project production, it’s time for you to create your masterpiece.

Getting out of your artistic comfort zone can be really scary. It can be intimidating to pick up a new medium and try to learn a new skill. But artistic growth often thrives when you get out of your comfort zone. If you want to try new things and push your creative boundaries, here are some tips that can help you do so.

Try a New Medium to Expand Your Artistic Comfort Zone 

Trying a new medium can be scary but it’s one of the quickest ways to break out of your comfort zone. If you’re a painter who works with acrylics, why not try watercolor or oil paints? If you like to draw with just your pencil, try out pastels, colored pencils, or even charcoal. Try clay sculpting if you usually stick to drawing on paper. Try scrapbooking if you enjoy designing online. There are so many options to try out.

My favorite thing is to go to a craft store and pick a craft I wouldn’t normally pick up. That is how I got into punching needling and embroidery. There are so many avenues you can go down and luckily it’s easy to look up help when things get tough. By working with different materials, you will challenge your skills and maybe ignite a new passion. 

Collaborate with Others 

Partnering with other artists introduces you to new techniques and perspectives. It can inspire new ideas and approaches to your art. Getting together with an artistic group will give you an opportunity to try out new methods. If one artist uses a certain medium that you are not familiar with, let them teach you their skills. It’s always good to bounce ideas off of others to gain knowledge and perspective on a new medium. 

Attend Classes Outside of Your Artistic Comfort Zone

Enrolling in a class or a workshop outside your medium can open up new avenues for exploration. There are many resources online that can help you such as YouTube, Masterclasses, and sometimes even your local community college. There are also in person classes at your local craft store, libraries, or even museums that you can sign up for. Embrace a new venture, don’t let the fear of failure hold you back from trying new things. 

Embrace Failure 

When reaching outside of your artistic comfort zone, making mistakes is a natural part of the creative process. If you don’t make mistakes then you’re not learning. Each mistake is an opportunity for growth. It’s okay if you try something for the first time that doesn’t meet your expectations. At least you’re stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new. 

Stepping out of your artistic comfort zone is a journey of exploration and self-discovery. By experimenting with new mediums, seeking feedback from others, and trying new things, you’ll not only enhance your skills but maybe find a new passion for a new craft.

In its simplest form, communication is the act of transferring information from one person or group to another. Whether personally or professionally, through talk or text, we typically spend much of our day communicating with other people.

It sounds simple, right? As someone whose job in account services relies heavily on communication with both team members and clients, I can assure you this isn’t always the case. Remember playing the telephone game as a kid? I do, and I can assure you the message that started the circle wasn’t always the message that ended the circle. Confusion ensued!

Improving Your Communication Skills

Undoubtedly our communication skills have improved since our days playing the telephone game, but we all still fall short in communicating effectively at times. So, how do we get better? Let’s first take a look at a few of the main ways we communicate.

1. Verbal Communication
   Whether we communicate through face-to-face meetings, a phone call or video chat, all of these are categorized as verbal communication. Using our voice to deliver the message to our audience.
   
2. Nonverbal Communication
   Nonverbal communication accompanies verbal communication. When we speak, we give off different signals without using spoken words, and sometimes without even realizing we are doing it. This can include facial expressions, posture, eye contact, tone of voice, gestures, how we dress, etc.
   
3. Written Communication
   There are many ways we can deliver our message through the written word. And, often this is considered the most common and effective way to communicate. It can be through emails, letters, social media, articles, text messages, etc.
   
4. Visual Communication
   When we communicate visually it is done through a means that can be read or viewed by the recipient and has become more prevalent because of social media platforms. Such as infographics, graphs, videos, slides, etc.

Barriers to Being Effective

There are many barriers that can impede effective communication. Let’s explore a few of them.

• Inattentive
  In other words, we simply aren’t paying attention. This can lead to missing important details and misunderstanding or misinterpreting what we do hear.
  
  
• Mismatched Communications Styles
  Does how you prefer to communicate differ from that of the intended recipient? If so, there’s most likely a greater chance of miscommunications.
  
  
• Poor Timing
  No matter how well thought out and prepared your communication might be, your message will fall short if it isn’t delivered at an appropriate time.
  
  
• Too Much Jargon
  Although at times jargon can make your communication more efficient, often, your intended audience will not understand it and will be left in a state of confusion.

Troubleshooting Your Communication Gaps

Now that we have outlined both some of the common forms of communication and barriers to communication, let’s talk about how we can overcome them.

• Active Listening
  If you find yourself struggling to absorb the communication, you might want to read up on active listening. It involves digesting the information, and then responding back through paraphrasing, asking questions and body language cues.
  
  
• Identify Communication Styles
  You need to understand not only if your audience prefers to communicate face-to-face vs. emails, etc., but also if they prefer straightforward and to the point messages vs. being inundated with all the details. The answer may vary based on what is being discussed and you need to adjust your communication style accordingly.
  
  
•  Think Before You Communicate
  Timing is everything when it comes to communicating to your audience. Are you sending your message right before a big event, a planned vacation or late at night? Always make sure you take these things into consideration if you want to be heard.
  
  
• Use Plain and Simple Language
  Shorthand and acronyms can save you time, but often it leads to your recipient feeling frustrated and confused because the language isn’t understood by all. Make sure you tailor your message to your audience, and only use jargon if you know it will be understood by all.

Regardless of how you communicate to your audience, there are going to be instances when it is ineffective. But, if you keep in mind some simple obstacles to avoid, you’ll find these instances will be few and far between.

As I was pondering what to share in this month’s newsletter, an email about books hit my inbox. It was my daily New York Times digest. And, one of the stories featured was the 100 Best Books of the 21st Century. To be honest, I only scrolled through the first 50. And, gosh, I haven’t read any of them. But, of course, now I am excited to have a new “to read” list.

How to Vacation: Read Books

On our annual July Fourth vacation to Gulf Shores, Alabama, not only do I cherish time with my kiddos, and the family tradition we have built. I enjoy reading, as I don’t have the opportunity to do it enough during the work week. On this vacation, I have a goal of reading a book a day. I know that sounds impossible, right? But I am a speedy reader when I’m engaged in a good book.

Reading to me is relaxation. It is an escape. Also, reading fills my head with new perspectives and ideas — even if I am reading romance or mystery novels. I do try to sharpen my parenting skills and throw in a parenting book now and then as well. In addition, adding business or professional development books to my library is important to me.

Books I’ve Been Reading This Summer

This year’s Fourth of July consumption, “dearest gentle reader,” did not disappoint. Highlights included:

James Patterson by James Patterson — My first audio book ever. Yes, stating this makes me feel like a dinosaur. I had no idea Patterson worked at J Walter Thompson. And was an executive there. He also produced some of the most iconic tag lines and creative concepts of all time! From this, I took away much. In addition to this one, I am adding two other books to my reading list: One by him and a book he gifts to others.

Five Principles of Parenting by Dr. Aliza Pressman — I have a 23-year-old son. Yet, parenting today and all the wise people and new learnings out there are still a benefit to me when I’m parenting my 11-year-old daughter. This book is a true treasure trove of wisdom.

Eruption by Michael Crichton and James Patterson — Wowsa. There were many unexpected turns and twists. Also, mind blown regarding new learnings on the science of volcanoes and other things. A must read y’all.

This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune — This is one of the top easy-to-read and escape-into books of the summer.

Need More Insights on These Books?

Want to share why you read and what your favorites are? I’m happy to have a call or Teams chat. Or leave a comment here. Summer reading and time away from work are so important for the soul, don’t you think?

Of course, if we can help you with your marketing and branding needs, book discussion or not, email, call or text us.

We are welcoming intern Michael Panikkacherry, our newest rocker from Texas Tech, to the team this summer. We wanted to get to know him better, so we asked him a few questions! He’s an advertising student and eager to learn more about this industry this summer at Front Porch Marketing. Give him a big howdy!

What is the biggest misconception about marketing today?

The biggest misconception about marketing today is that it’s primarily about advertising and selling products, when in fact, effective marketing is more about building relationships and  understanding customer needs. 

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I would advise myself to embrace failure as a teaching opportunity and to concentrate on developing resilience and flexibility since these traits will help you navigate the ups and downs of life.

What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned so far at school?

A good routine is key to success, especially in college when you’re living on your own. 

What does good brand strategy look like?

A good brand strategy clearly defines the brand’s purpose and values while also building a strong emotional connection to the target audience. 

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?

I would like to go to Iceland because I feel like it is a very unique travel destination and the land and scenery is beautiful. 

If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead, who would it be?

I would want to go to dinner with Michael Jackson because I have always loved his music since I could remember and he was such an icon for me. 

If you could describe yourself in three words what would they be?

Sociable, dedicated, adaptable

Tell me about a major milestone in your life?

A major milestone in my life would have to be when I was elected leader for our community service project. I realized then that I was seen as a reliable person to the group that can help us get things done in a timely manner. 

From your perspective, how does Front Porch Marketing differentiate itself from other marketing companies?

Front Porch Marketing differentiates itself from other marketing companies because of its close knit team. 

What is a fun fact about you?

A fun fact about me is that I love to travel outside of the country. 

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 13^th 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.

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 30^th 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 4^th 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!

We Are Grateful For Our Work and Our Clients

There are blessings aplenty to be grateful for this year. We are coming in hot from several days of a very successful video and photo shoot with an amazing client. Hard work, yes. But we have joy and gratitude for the opportunity to work with smart, collaborative partners. As a bonus, the client’s entire team flew in from Arizona, California, Colorado and Florida. And others drove in from North Texas and Houston.

We worked hard, didn’t play enough. But we are grateful for the positive energy, in-person conversations and teamwork. These people, and the work we are doing together, were inspiring and will get us through the holiday hustle.

In addition, over the past several weeks, our network introduced us to amazing new connections. As well as, we have onboarded rocking’ new clients.

We Are Grateful For Our Team

Moreover, the team is shining. The rock stars are taking on new responsibilities. Jumping in when and where needed. And I won’t get started about our interns. Besides their energy, hard work and great contributions, one is now a master teleprompter engineer.

In addition to blogging about expressing gratitude to your internal team, clients and advocates, here are a few other things to consider. Not rocket surgery or brain science, but we all need refreshers from time to time, right?!?!

How To Show Gratitude To Those You Work With

Determine your key audiences and the best way to communicate gratitude with them using some of the following tactics:

1. Phone calls — As the great Stevie Wonder sang, “I just called to say …” Pick up the phone. Express gratitude to your team, clients and advocates.
2. Emails — A quick thank you with a custom expression of why you are grateful for colleagues, peers, networks and clients.
3. Old fashioned greeting cards — These are a fav of mine. Make sure to include a handwritten, message.
4. Custom holiday cards — Design a branded card or note card. We can help you with that.
5. Handwritten thank you note — Use your branded company stationery to send a few sentences to those who you are grateful for.
6. Zoom or Teams — For those busy folks or those not near, schedule a 15-minute video conference to tell them what they mean to you and your company.
7. Coffee or lunch — Some still prefer face to face meetings. Schedule a few. Make it happen. For introverts like me, this is hard. But they are necessary.

If you want to chat further about how to express gratitude in business, contact us. We would love to help. Cheers to rolling into the hectic holiday season with a thankful heart. We are grateful for you, our readers.