How to Build Better Business Relationships Over the Holidays

December comes with a natural breath — a collective exhale masked as a gift.

While most people slow down, so many of us, business owners, founders, publicists, and creatives plant seeds that grow into the new year.

Here's how I, personally to turn the holidays into time to business stronger relationships.

My meaningful posts, my personalized messaging, my compliments every quarter or boutique of flowers in the mail, or that journal that popped up from Amazon when you were sick are all strategic yet thoughtful ways that I build strong relationships over these down months we call Holidaze. Let me be more specific.

1. START With Humanity, Not a REQUEST 

When you or how you make an initial connection matters. We are humans first and users second so start with humanity. If you're piseed, be PISSED. If you've been humbled, be humble. If you just want to say "Great Job!" say that.

Here are a few examples of what's worked for me:

“Thinking of that post you reposted earlier this summer on loneliness — hope the season is treating you well.”
A quick message:
“That green accent in the Tech section this year inspired my new office space. Wishing you rest and joy.”

2. Send Value, Not Just Hellos

Holiday greetings are cute and plentiful and EASY, but value is remembered.

Here are a few examples of what's worked for me:

• A resource that made your year easier (media directories or New Editor alert)
  

• A recommendation or referral, google business review/Instagram verification

• An invitation to collaborate in January

3. Celebrate Their Wins on Your Social Media

Here are a few examples of what's worked for me:

• A virtual congrats (promotional or campaign success)

• A year-end “wins + lessons learned” circle carousal 
  

• A “soft 2026 Goals” Posts that Shares your Intent

People are more relaxed and online with less deadline pressure.

4. Follow Up on Conversations/Emails/DMs

All year long, you met people, collect business cards then life happened.

Here are a few examples of what's worked for me:

“Hey, still thinking about our conversation from the XYZ event — ready to pick things up in January?”

"Did I drop the ball or did you?

"Are you still ghosting me?"

5. Show Appreciation to the People Already in Your Corner

Relationships thrive on acknowledgment and appreciation.

Posts on your social media through the holidays just saying Thank you!

• Followers

• People that Comment consistently

• Clients who trusted you

• Editors who said YES and Paid on Time

• Team members who roll up their sleeves every time you ask
  

6. Set a January "Just Do It" Plan 

January is the doing month.

Here are a few examples of what's worked for me:

“I’m focusing on building my subscription base by 10% in Q1 — would love to explore how we might work together.”
or
“I’m lecturing at three HBCU's the first quarter in 2026 for the Big Fat projects. Let me know if you want in.

People love clarity and momentum.