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Countdown to Christmas: Why Your New Year Planning Should Start Now


For makers of musical instruments, consumer electronics, or in fact any product or service the festive season can feel like a double-edged sword.





While it’s the time for ringing sales and bustling customers, it’s also the moment you realise that planning for Christmas really should have started back in July. If you’re feeling the holiday crush, don’t worry—you’re not alone. But rather than letting the overwhelm dictate your December, let’s pivot the focus to something more empowering: getting ready for 2025.


Here’s the truth: effective planning doesn’t happen on the fly. If you’re determined to evolve your brand or improve customer engagement in the new year, it requires thought, strategy, and a clear sense of direction. This isn’t about throwing ideas at the wall and seeing what sticks; it’s about ensuring your next year of business is intentional, sustainable, and successful.


A Thoughtful Approach to Planning


As you juggle festive demands, step back and take a broader view of your schedule. By mid-January, your focus for 2025 should be set. Whether it’s introducing a new product line, refining your brand identity, or building stronger connections with your customers, a bit of forward-thinking now can save a lot of chaos later.


Here’s how to get started


1. Plan Beyond the Holidays

If you’re still scrambling to meet your Christmas goals, it’s a sign that your strategy could use some refining. Instead of being reactive, start thinking proactively. Use December to outline the projects and campaigns you want to prioritize in the first quarter of 2025. Write them down, assign realistic timelines, and ensure your team knows what’s on the horizon.


2. Audit and Organize Your Workspace


A cluttered desktop or filing system isn’t just annoying—it’s inefficient. If your computer desktop is your filing cabinet (we see you, desktop squirrels), carve out time to organize it. Sort those files into relevant folders, back up what matters, and delete the junk. The goal? Begin January with a clean slate, both digitally and physically.





3. Map Out Your Brand Goals


Brand evolution doesn’t happen by accident. Ask yourself:

  • How do you want your customers to perceive your business in 2025?

  • What’s the next step for your product offerings?

  • Are there gaps in your communication or engagement that need addressing?


By answering these questions now, you’ll set the stage for meaningful progress next year.


4. Prioritise People Over Pressure


The holiday rush can make it tempting to focus solely on sales, but remember that building long-term relationships with your customers matters just as much. Make space in your plans for human-centered marketing, whether that’s by sharing your brand’s story, showcasing customer success, or investing in better after-sales support.


The Benefits of Being Prepared


Taking the time now to sort your plans will do more than set you up for success in 2025. It’ll also make your holiday downtime more enjoyable. Imagine this: you’ve got a clear schedule, an organised workspace, and no nagging sense of “What have I forgotten?” You’ll actually be able to enjoy those mince pies and mulled wine, knowing you’re stepping into the new year with focus and purpose.

This is just the beginning. Over the next three articles, we’ll explore more tips to help you organize, strategize, and thrive in 2025. Stay tuned, and remember: planning isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about building the foundation for your brand’s future.


Next Up: In our next piece, we’ll tackle the nitty-gritty of setting actionable goals and creating a timeline for success. After all, a goal without a plan is just a wish. Let’s make 2025 the year of intentional growth.

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