How to Stay in Touch Over the Holidays

If you’re like most professionals, small business owners, or networking enthusiasts, the holiday season can feel like a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s the perfect time to build and strengthen relationships. On the other, the whirlwind of gifts, gatherings, and year-end deadlines can overwhelm even the best intentioned among us.

But staying connected with your network doesn’t have to be stressful—or time-consuming. With a few thoughtful gestures, you can maintain relationships during the holidays and set yourself up for better opportunities in the year ahead.

Why the Holidays Are Perfect for Networking

The holiday season is one of the best times of the year to reconnect with your network. But why?

1. It’s natural to reach out. The holidays come with built-in reasons to connect—wishing someone a happy holiday, sending a New Year’s greeting, or sharing your plans for the following year. It doesn’t feel random; it feels festive and warm.
2. People are in a good mood. Generally, the holidays create a positive atmosphere. People are more likely to respond, and the interactions are often lighter and more genuine.
3. It sets the stage for the year ahead. By staying in touch now, you remind your network that you value them—and you position yourself top of mind when opportunities arise in the new year.

Now, the big question is how to stay in touch.

1. Send a Thoughtful Text Message

The easiest and fastest way to reconnect with someone in your network is to send a simple, heartfelt text message.

For example, you could say something like this:

• “I just wanted to say happy holidays! I hope this season brings you joy and time to relax. Looking forward to catching up in the new year!”
• “Hi, thinking of you and wishing you a wonderful holiday season. Let me know if you’d like to grab coffee in January!”

These short messages are personal, low-pressure, and convey that you’ve thought of them during the holiday rush.

Tip: If you’re reaching out to someone you haven’t spoken with in a while, don’t overthink it. Keep it light, warm, and friendly.

2. Send a Holiday Email

If your network primarily lives in your inbox, a well-crafted holiday email can go a long way. This works particularly well for business contacts or professional acquaintances who may prefer more formal communication.

What to include in your email:

• A warm holiday greeting
• A brief, positive update about your year (optional)
• An expression of support or gratitude
• An offer to reconnect in the new year

Here’s an example email template you can adapt:

Subject: Wishing You a Wonderful Holiday Season

Dear [Name],

I wanted to take a moment to wish you a fantastic holiday season and a joyous New Year. This time of year always reminds me how grateful I am for the connections I’ve made, and I truly value the relationship we’ve built.

If you’re available, I’d love to reconnect in January over a cup of coffee or a quick (10-15 min) video catch-up. Either way, I wish you a season filled with laughter, rest, and success in the year to come.

Warm regards,

[Your Name]

Pro Tip: Personalize the email wherever possible by mentioning specific shared experiences or interests from the past year.

3. Handwrite a Card (Yes, Really!)

Few things stand out like a handwritten holiday card. With so much digital communication these days, receiving something personal in the mail feels special. Consider sending handwritten cards to your closer contacts—key clients, colleagues, or mentors.

Ideas for what to write:

• Thank them for their support, guidance, or collaboration over the year.
• Share your excitement about working together or staying in touch in the future.
• Wish them well for the holidays and the year ahead.

If you want to go the extra mile, include a small gesture—like a printed photo from a shared memory or a coupon to their favorite coffee shop.

4. Host a Holiday Coffee Catch-Up

Fancy a more personal touch? Invite a member of your network to a holiday coffee catch-up. This is a great option if you’ve been wanting to have a longer, more meaningful conversation.

Here’s how to make it happen:

• Reach out with a message like this:
• “Hi [Name], I was thinking it would be great to catch up before the holidays. Do you have time for a quick coffee next week?”
• Be mindful of their busy schedule—offer a flexible time and don’t take up more than 30 minutes unless they suggest otherwise.
• Keep things light during your meet-up, but feel free to discuss mutual goals for the year ahead towards the end.

Even if they can’t meet in person, the gesture will show them that you value the relationship.

5. Engage on Social Media

If time is tight, social media is your best friend. A quick comment, like, or share may not seem like much, but it’s a simple way to remind your network that you’re thinking of them.

Ways to engage:

• Respond to holiday posts with personalized comments.
• Share your own holiday message or updates on platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram.
• Celebrate their achievements with a congratulatory message.

For example:

• “Congratulations on the big win for Q4! Wishing you and your team a relaxing holiday season.”
• “Loved your recent post about [topic]. Here’s to even more success in the new year!”

Social media allows you to keep the connection alive—without taking too much time out of your day.

6. Share Encouragement & Positivity

The holidays can be a stressful time for many, so one of the best things you can do is spread a little positivity.

Here’s how to incorporate support into your outreach:

• Offer encouragement for their goals (e.g., “I see all the amazing work you’ve been doing this year—hoping 2025 is even better for you!”).
• Share an uplifting holiday message, like a favorite quote or tradition.
• Acknowledge any challenges they’ve faced and express hope for smoother times ahead.

Sometimes, a message of support is exactly what your contacts need—and it strengthens your relationship in a meaningful way.

Strengthen Your Network for the Year Ahead

Staying in touch over the holidays doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Whether it’s a quick text, a heartfelt email, or a coffee invitation, small gestures go a long way in maintaining and strengthening your network.

Take advantage of the natural warmth and goodwill of the season to leave a positive impression—and set yourself up for deeper connections in the year ahead.