Thursday Thoughts on Leadership: December Inspiration

By Gino Blefari

This week my travels find me in Irvine, CA at the HSF Affiliates LLC headquarters for a leadership meeting and a Town Hall with the entire Irvine-based staff. During these get-togethers, my team will discuss motivation and inspiration, reflecting on our past year and looking forward to a year of growth and prosperity ahead.

Stephen R. Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, once said, “The best way to predict your future is to create it.” And in fact, the name of your game this December should be proactivity. If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to think and plan out how to have a breakthrough 2016. To get you started, here are some ways to increase productivity and success in the new year:

• Fill up your January calendar now; set as many appointments as you can. This way, when January rolls around, you won’t be waiting for business to pick back up.
• Call everyone in your circle of influence and wish them happy holidays. You can use the F.O.R.D. method and ask them about their family, occupation, recreation and dreams to stir conversation.
• Host a client appreciation cocktail reception. Be sure to interact with all your invited guests and let them know you’re grateful for their business.
• Invite VIP contacts to events you’re already hosting or attending.
• Send a personalized holiday card with an enclosed gift certificate to a local store.

So, what’s the message? No matter what you do this month, the key is to keep it personal and rooted in holiday cheer. Don’t make your efforts overly promotional or agenda driven. Your goal this December should be to show your customers, clients, friends and family just how much you care.

GINO BLEFARI is CEO of HSF Affiliates LLC. You can follow Gino on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.