Hey everyone, it is me, Lisa, and welcome back to another episode of The Other 99%. Today, I just wanted to chat with you about something that I see many, many direct sellers doing. Over the years that I’ve been in direct sales, I see this happen repeatedly. What it is, is people just putting their brakes on in their business in December. They usually go until that dreaded holiday cutoff because they seem to think that’s the cutoff for their business and they get to stop working. Then, they plan to just pick it up again in January when they’re ready to start.

Now, I’m here to tell you that it is very, very important for you to take time for yourself. I’m not saying don’t take any time for your family, rest, and recharge, but there are a few things you can do to keep your business going. You don’t necessarily have to take your foot off the accelerator and apply the brake; instead, you can think of it like pushing the cruise control button. So, keep that analogy in mind when it comes to your holiday shut-off time.

I know all the companies are promoting their holiday shipping cutoffs right now. But here’s something to think about: our products sell the rest of the year with no problem. They’re not just gifts. So, don’t assume that just because the holiday shipping cutoff has passed, people won’t buy. I came up with five points to help you think about how to apply cruise control to your business in December.

First of all, you need to stay consistent. If consistency during the holidays means going from posting daily in your group or on social media to posting two or three times a week, then do it—but stay consistent. Spend at least 15 minutes, three times a week, on follow-ups. I would say more, but at least three times a week. Follow-ups are critical because, as they say, the fortune is in the follow-up.

Next, make sure you’re doing the odd check-in with your team members if you have them. They might be the ones pushing the brakes on their businesses, and you want to keep them active. You don’t want January to hit, and they suddenly think, “Oh, now I need to start working my business.” What you’ll find is their businesses won’t gain momentum until February or even mid-February. Keep their wheels rolling along with yours. Feel free to share tips with your team because many of them see that shipping cutoff as a signal to stop everything. I’ve seen this happen so many times, and honestly, it baffles me.

Onto point two: share what you’re doing during the holidays. Most people celebrate this time of year. Share how you’re gifting your products. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your life. You don’t even need to be with Epicure to do this. Share some of your favorite holiday recipes—maybe even go live while making them. You can use that time to casually talk about your business, too. All of this helps build trust and connections with your community.

Point three is planning for January. Many businesses slow down during the holidays, especially during that week between Christmas and New Year’s. By mid-December, you need to be planning for January. Start promoting early January events now because most people won’t be paying attention in late December. Share sneak peeks, teasers, or details about any exciting programs you’re launching in the new year. For example, in my business, we’re relaunching a New Year’s program centered around healthy eating. January is the perfect time to take advantage of opportunities like that. So, ask yourself: what can you do to generate excitement for the new year in your business?

Point four: automate your tasks. Schedule posts, emails, and texts in advance. We know these holiday dates are coming—they’re not a surprise. Use this time to create your content and get everything scheduled. But don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to implement a brand-new system. Instead, focus on maintaining your current momentum. Yes, there might be pop-up specials from your company that require immediate action, but your main posts, messages, and videos can all be prepared ahead of time.

Finally, point five: focus on building relationships. Send holiday cards to your top customers, especially if your back office system allows you to identify them. Show gratitude to those who’ve supported your business, like people who referred others to you. A simple thank-you card or small sample can go a long way. Even a voice message in someone’s inbox saying, “Hey, just wanted to wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season,” can make a huge impact. It keeps you top of mind while strengthening your connections.

So, to sum it all up, momentum matters. Don’t stop your business entirely in December. Instead, keep things steady so you can cruise into January without losing progress. Take time to rest and enjoy the holidays, but keep that momentum rolling.

Thank you so much for tuning into another episode of The Other 99%. I hope you all have an amazing end to 2024. I’ll see you next week for another episode. Take care, everyone.