Killer ideas

Entrepreneur, Dec, 1997

'Tis the season to be creative. For smart sharks, the holidays offer an ocean of opportunities to build your business. After all, there's no better time to cement business relationships, to renew old acquaintances and to celebrate with the clients and colleagues who have helped you stay in the swim all year. Try these tips for making the most of the holiday season:

1. Make a list. On second thought, make several - you'll need them. Set aside some time to flip through your business cards, rack your brain and write down all the people you'll want to remember this holiday season. Are there clients who have been especially valuable? Colleagues who've referred new business to you? Former customers you'd like to renew ties with? Jot down guest lists, gift lists and holiday card lists on a Union Camp Great White[R] Recycled Content note or legal pad and you're ready to roll.

2. Be the life of the party. Make your holiday party an affair to remember by thinking creatively. Party at a posh hotel...or rent a fun, funky nightclub for the evening. Rent out an ice-skating rink, or, for a personal touch, hold the party at your home. To really float their boat, try a soiree at sea (or lake, or river): Charter a boat for a harbor cruise, complete with catered dinner and dancing, of course. Your bash is sure to make a splash.

3. Spread the word. Grab that guest list - and grab your clients' attention with eye-catching party invitations. This time of year, there are so many fish in the sea - er, invitations in the mail - that yours really have to stand out. Clients will clamor to R.S.V.P. when you use Union Camp's Great White[R] Recycled Content Matte Coated Inkjet paper. It gives you crisp, intense color that always gets a response.

4. Get your staff in the spirit.

The holidays can be a stressful time at some businesses, so put employees in a holiday mood by giving them the scoop on the holiday party well in advance. You'll build anticipation and give them something to look forward to when times are tough. Use brightly imprinted fliers for your staff instead of invitations so you don't take a bite out of your budget. Fantastic fliers are easy when you use Union Camp's Great White[R] Recycled Content Matte Coated Inkjet paper. It's good for the environment and runs like a nonrecycled sheet.

5. Deck the walls. It's the time of year to be of good cheer. To help everyone catch the wave of holiday happiness, why not decorate the office with colorful, holiday-themed posters? For an extra-special touch, design your own (or enlist a creative employee to do it). Keep the decor nondenominational so no one feels left out. Union Camp's Great White[R] Glossy or Matte Coated Inkjet papers are perfect for 8 1/2-by-11-inch posters; their vibrant color reproduction and special coating will brighten any business.

6. Play your cards right. Smart sharks know not to be Scrooge when it comes to sending holiday cards. The holidays are all about relationships, and cards are a subtle but effective way to thank loyal clients, remind former customers you're still around, and tell business associates how much you appreciate them. To add a personal touch, have a graphic designer create your cards, or add a photo of yourself and your staff. For the sharpest art and photo reproduction, be sure to use Union Camp's Great White[R] Recycled Content Glossy Coated Inkier paper. (And don't forget to recycle your cards when the season is over.)

7. Gifts that keep on giving. Some clients and associates mean a little more to you. For a business gift they'll remember, don't settle for standard stuff: Dive deep into your memory, and think about their hobbies, habits and interests. Try tickets to a play or sporting event; gear for a hobby, like golf or sailing; or a book on a topic they're passionate about, like photography or wine.

8. Charity begins at the business. 'Tis the season to be generous. Help sponsor a charity ball, give your employees an after noon off to help feed the homeless at a local soup kitchen, or hold a clothing or food drive at your office. Or consider donating outdated inventory to charity: They get the goods, and you net a tax break. Consult your accountant about other ways to benefit worthy causes - and your bottom line - by donating before year-end.

9. Give yourself the gift of time. Even the happiest of holiday seasons inevitably hold hassles - especially for busy business owners. When your to-do list seems six miles long and your head is swimming, take a break. Don't let your business (or your personal life) sink under the weight of too many obligations. Make sure to set aside time for yourself during this busy time.

10. Don't forget to say thank you. Your mother was right about this one. After the tinsel is packed away and the last drop of eggnog is drunk, send thank-you notes to the clients and colleagues who attended your party, mailed gifts or sent cards. It's the perfect way to follow up and remind them of how your business can meet their needs...especially when your thank-you notes are colorfully printed on Union Camp's Great White[R] Recycled Content Matte Coated Inkjet paper and mailed in Great White[R] envelopes.