The temperature has cooled, some overzealous colleagues maybe itching to add their seasonal songs to the office playlist, and the obligatory wear-a-Christmas-jumper-to-work day looms. As the song lyrics say, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.”
Like it or not, the holiday season ushers in an opportunity to boost business through decorations. Many of us are accustomed to the Christmas tree, the holly wreath, the smell of mulled wine and mince pies, the twinkling lights and, of course, the presents. In this time of festive cheer and goodwill, we stand together on the brink of a new year, reminding us that another is drawing to a close.
For over 50 years we have been helping our customers to craft their Christmas decorations and if there is one thing that we have learned at Ambius, it is that seasonal decorations are about people. For many of us the holiday season holds a nostalgic remembrance of years gone by – and capturing the very essence of the joy they can bring helps our customers to deliver something special for their employees and clients.
Last year, over the holiday season, we surveyed more than 1000 industry specialists (in the UK, US, Australia, Netherlands and Sweden), on the impact of holiday décor in offices. The results demonstrated that 66% of office managers felt that holiday décor was ‘important’ or ‘very important’ in creating a relaxed environment for their staff and clients. They also feel strongly about the importance of decorations in improving client relations; with 43% describing it as a ‘key factor’.
Brand image is also crucial. Research from Thomson Reuters and Interbrand shows that three decades ago, as much as 95% of the average corporation’s value consisted of tangible assets. Today, 75% of that average corporation’s value is intangible. In other words, a business’s most valuable asset is its good name, brand and reputation.
As a brand, failing to invest in festive decorations during the holiday season could cost you more than the nickname ‘Scrooge’ from your staff and customers. Our research has shown that 68% of respondents ranked a ‘positive brand image’ as one of the top three impacts of holiday décor on the office.
If you have spent all year investing in your brand, office and reputation, then why not ensure that you make the most of the magical festive season? Otherwise, you potentially risk bypassing seasons greetings for not-so-festive farewells.
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