How to write a great end-of-year message!
It’s that time of the year where people are starting to turn their thoughts to the holidays, the ‘Secret Santa’ is well under way, and offices are about to empty out for a few weeks… it’s also the time of year when leaders communicate about the year that’s been and what’s to come! So here’s our quick guide on how to write an amazing end-of-year email for your teams.
1. Start and end with gratitude
A big ‘thank you’ to your team can go a long way! Often people don’t want to be rewarded, just recognised. Here’s your chance to recognise their efforts by:
Calling out a few key examples of amazing things your team has achieved or challenges overcome (top tip - make sure you use a variety of examples, or at least a few that speak to all team members - nobody likes to feel left out)
Acknowledging your team’s feelings - now and throughout the year - but make sure you keep it positive! For example, ‘I know it’s been a really tough year for some, and everyone’s faced a few challenges … but we’ve worked hard and those efforts have paid off.’
The final sign off should be another, genuine thank you. Leave people feeling the gratitude.
2. Look forward to the future
Keep momentum bubbling away by reminding the team not only what they’ve achieved, but what’s to come. What are the ‘big rocks’ your team will focus on in 2023? What are you genuinely excited about?
3. Encourage rest and relaxation
At this time of year, everyone is wrecked! Show that you care by prioritising your team’s wellbeing and encouraging them to switch off. Invite them to approach you if they’re concerned about not being able to take a break.
4. Make it a two-way conversation!
Rather than an email, could you deliver this message in person or virtually and invite the whole team to share their big achievements for the year, and what they’re looking forward to? It’s a great way to debrief and reset for the next year.
If you can’t deliver in person, try asking for their reflections and then include some of those in your email.
Think your organisation could use a bit of support with comms in the new year? Contact us to find out how we can help with:
Communication training - including leadership communication, crisis communication, change and internal comms
Developing your organisation’s internal communication framework - we’ve got this down to a fine art now, and deliver bespoke but practical frameworks you can start implementing straight away
Developing your crisis communication plan - being prepared is the best way to manage the crisis!
Supporting your organisation’s change projects, including new business strategies, digital transformations, mergers and acquisitions, restructures, and everything in between.
Content creation / copywriting services - as a one-off, or on a retainer to supplement your team.
