This year taught us grit; last year taught us patience. May the culmination of the two bring measurable success to you in 2022.
In 2021, we have grown brands, rebranded brands and helped launch brands. We’ve seen how COVID affected us all in ways we’ll likely feel for years to come. Through it all, we’re still learning, adapting and aiming to thrive in ever-changing environments.
Just the other day, someone asked us how we’re able to make plans amidst the unknowns of an ongoing pandemic. In full transparency, it’s usually just one foot in front of the other with a healthy balance of reality and hopefulness. As we endure the disruptions, we must move forward with preparations and protocols. Additionally we’ve collectively discussed some of our best tips for communicators, businesses and those still getting their footing this season, hopefully these speak to you too.
Don’t Leave People Wondering
We’ve seen clear and consistent communication help build trust with audiences. Make sure you’re reaching out to those looking for your voice as often as you have something to share. When you make updates, changes and improvements—tell them. Vague isn’t vogue.
Think About the Future
While you may feel like you’re in purgatory, watching for COVID to disappear, it’s still important to make and act on your plans. Think ahead, things may be slow now, but you’ve got to keep building or else your competition will be taller and stronger when you decide to get back in the game. Use your lulls to help you grow. Move forward even when it’s uncomfortable.
Lead Well
In a time of unknowns, be a good citizen and lead others. Corporate social responsibility & environmental social governance are beacons that reign from the top-down, but your individual qualities should shine on others regardless of your position in a company. Sometimes doing the right thing isn’t popular, but if you’ve left high school being popular shouldn’t matter. Do the right thing and your best customers & opportunities will follow. We lived through a doozy this year—ask us about it if you’re curious. The key take away was that we’re glad we stood up for what was right, it’ll pay off in dividends for years to come and we saved a brand because of it.
Create Space
Make room to listen and learn in all areas of your life just like you would for your business. The past two years have allowed us to cull out the less important things from our social and professional lives, don’t rush to add them back when life starts moving full-speed ahead. Instead make space for the right things, fill your mind and your time with valuable information and opportunities. And, if you haven’t identified those yet, hold space for it.
One thing I’m especially proud of, on a personal note, is keeping this space for a monthly check in. Last December I made a goal to write here, monthly, as a way to share what was on our mind. A year later I’m glad I did just that, it was a small goal but it was achieved and that’s worth celebrating!
These are just a few lessons we’ve lived by that have allowed us make the most of “the now”. We’d love to hear your best ideas too, send us an email, we’re always listening.
Cheers & happy holidays!