Don’t Forget the Bow!

happy holidays graphic with tree

Taking Stock of a Whirlwind Year

Does it feel like 2022 went especially fast? This was an exciting year for Dardis Communications, bringing new opportunities at schools and non-profits alongside meaningful work for longtime clients. We celebrated our 20th anniversary. We made a point to keep learning, sharing insights and research. And we connected with you—our amazing clients, colleagues and friends! Thanks for being part of our story. 

Happy holidays!

 

Greg

President & CEO

greg@dardiscommunications.com

312.285.1073


 

joy holiday card being held by a man in a holiday sweater

Plan Your Message This Holiday Season

Chocolates versus slippers? Wine or a gift card?

For all the effort that goes into gift giving, don’t forget to put the bow on top: communicate a poignant message. A heartfelt message can be the best gift of all.

Think about who you’ll be seeing in the next three weeks: a colleague at a holiday party, a teacher at a Christmas concert, your supervisor, a client, a neighbor, in-laws.

Then consider what you’d like to tell them. Boil it down to the main message—a single sentence you can express in passing. The simpler the statement, the more memorable.

  • “I’m grateful for your support.”
  • “I’ve learned a lot from you.”
  • “It was fun collaborating on that project, and I’m excited to work together in the future!”
  • “Thank you for your business.”
  • “You’re a wonderful mentor.”
  • “I really admire you.”
  • “You went above and beyond.”
  • “We made great memories this year!”

Lastly, make a plan to convey your message:

  • Say it right away when you see them. Keep it short, be sincere and look them in the eyes.
  • Make a toast at a holiday party.
  • Write a note and leave it at their desk.
  • Send an email before you post your “out of office” message.
  • Grab a Sharpie and jot a note on a gift card.
  • Send a text.
  • Write a personal message on the back of the Christmas card.
  • Add a card to a plate of cookies.

Sincere affirmation goes a long way. Amid the chaos of Christmas, your words will endure.


Recommended Reading

You may recognize the name Adam Grant from Instagram, where the Wharton professor shares pearls of wisdom that are widely shared. His books are even better, delving deep into the fascinating subject matter. Give and Take makes the case that success is increasingly dependent on how we interact with others. It offers useful insights into networking, collaboration, influence, negotiation and leadership skills. A great read for everyone in your organization!

Learn More Here > Give and Take Book Cover


Client Testimonial

“You make excellent suggestions for improvement. It put me in an uncomfortable situation, yet a friendly environment.” –Dardis graduate


2023 Public Schedule

IN-PERSON

Leadership Presentation & Image Skills 

February 7th & 8th – Des Moines

April 18th & 19th – Cedar Rapids

June 7th & 8th – Des Moines

August 16th & 17th – Des Moines

October 10th & 11th – Des Moines

November 28th & 29th – Des Moines