10 Ways to Strengthen Client Relationships Before Year-End

As we move into the last few weeks of the year, our days can become stressful and filled with overwhelming tasks and deadlines. However, this time of year also offers natural ways to reconnect with clients to express authentic appreciation and prepare for what’s coming next. Here are 10 practical activities to help maximize year-end client connections.

1. Reach Out with a Genuine, Low-Pressure Check-In

The end of the year is a great time to connect without feeling transactional. A quick email or phone call to say thank you, share an update, or acknowledge the close of the year goes a long way. Try to keep it personal rather than a general holiday email. Just today a client sent a note with a photo of her dog dressed in holiday lights. It was such a fun surprise in my day, and of course I responded right away.

2. Schedule a Short “Year-End Touchpoint” Call

A quick call can show thoughtfulness and reveal upcoming needs early. Set aside a little time to reach out and ask your clients:

  • What is top of mind as they plan for Q1?

  • Are there anticipated shifts in their business?

  • What goals or priorities are emerging for the next year?

3. Offer Something of Immediate Value

Clients appreciate useful information more than holiday swag. And value-driven content reinforces your role as a strategic advisor. Consider sending:

  • “What to expect in the next year” summary

  • Checklist for January 1 changes or new requirements

  • Practical insights tied to their current challenges

4. Share a Thoughtful Wrap-Up of the Work You’ve Done Together

A short recap of key milestones not only shows your care, but reminds clients of your impact. It can also open the door to conversations about next steps or other work. Try to make it personal by including a highlight of a shared non-work-related activity from the year.

5. Host (or Attend) Small-Format Conversations

Instead of large receptions, opt for smaller intimate gatherings that foster meaningful discussion as people are more candid and connected in these smaller settings.

  • Invite a client for a coffee walk

  • Host a small lunch with key decision-makers from various companies to help make introductions

  • Arrange a casual drink with clients or connections whose backgrounds align well, creating space for a natural mentor–mentee connection.

6. Bring a Personalized Point of View

Clients remember when you are prepared. Demonstrate you understand their business by referencing:

  • Industry changes affecting them

  • Competitor activity or market shifts

  • Conversations from earlier in the year

7. Strengthen the Basics: Contact Information and Touchpoints

Strong fundamentals ensure smoother, more strategic outreach going forward. This is a great time to make sure you have (and have shared with your marketing and BD teams):

  • Updated information for their legal, business, and finance teams

  • Awareness of new decision-makers or stakeholders

  • A record of touchpoints for the year

8. Send Meaningful Appreciation

A handwritten note, a short call, or a LinkedIn message often resonates more than a generic gift. If you choose to send something, keep it thoughtful and client-specific.

9. Thoughtfully Introduce Colleagues When It’s Helpful

This is a good time to connect clients with others they may need, not as a sales pitch but as a service. For example:

  • “Our privacy group just released a quick checklist that might be useful for your January planning.”

  • “I would like you to meet my associate who has worked on your matters quite a bit over the past year.”

  • “I’d love to introduce you to a consultant we work with often. Given your growth plans next year, I think her experience could be a real asset.”

10. Follow Through in January

Clients will remember what happens after the outreach. Set reminders now to:

  • Send promised materials

  • Make introductions discussed

  • Revisit ideas mentioned in your year-end call

  • Schedule a Q1 check-in

You don’t need grand gestures to make year-end outreach meaningful. A few thoughtful touchpoints based in genuine appreciation can go a long way. And when January comes, having strengthened relationships and a clearer view of your clients’ needs can make all the difference for the year ahead.

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