According to an Associated Press article from yesterday, many companies are scaling back or even canceling this year's company Christmas party. Even heavy hitters like Viacom have nixed the traditional Yuletide gathering, offering employees two paid days off instead.
If the annual gathering is not to be, it's even more essential to send business holiday cards to those who would ordinarily be a part of the festivities. While it can't take the place of a face-to-face gathering, a beautiful company Christmas card or New Year's greeting can provide an essential point of contact in this troubled economic climate.
An elegant, well-worded corporate holiday card can convey gratitude for past service or business, offer wishes for a prosperous New Year, and perhaps even reassure business recipients that a trusted company is still around.
According to the AP article, many companies are sending out a message that the party has been canceled out of consideration for those who are facing such troubled times...a lavish party following layoffs, foreclosures and other financial troubles would not be in good taste. Whether or not the sentiment is sincere, it does offer a palatable explanation that seems more considerate than desperate, and might reassure some clients and customers.
For employees, a card with a custom sentiment that expresses gratitude and a sense of understanding, especially if layoffs have occurred or are a possibility, can go a long way towards showing an employee that the company does understand. Enclosing a gift card for a local grocery store or gas station is a wonderful idea -- far less expensive than a party, it will go a long way towards helping employees feel heard.
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