How to Sleigh Your Social Media This Christmas

The countdown to Christmas is officially on. For most small businesses, November and December can feel like a whirlwind of juggling orders, festive events, staff parties, and trying to squeeze in a bit of marketing before the out-of-office hits.

Your social media could be your biggest festive helper if you use it right.

So, before you panic-post another “Merry Christmas from us!” graphic, here’s how to make your content sparkle this season.

 1. Plan now, post later

If you’re still writing captions with one hand while wrapping gifts with the other, it’s time to get ahead. Spend a couple of hours scheduling your festive posts for the next few weeks. You’ll thank yourself when you’re sipping mulled wine instead of staring at Canva on Christmas Eve.

Top tip: Use free tools like Metricool to schedule posts in advance.

2. Make it personal (and a little bit human)

People buy from people - especially at Christmas. Show a bit of behind-the-scenes cheer:

• Your team (or you!) putting up the tree

• The office dog in a Santa hat

• A festive coffee break

• Or even a “what we’re grateful for this year” post

  
  

These posts might not sell directly, but they build trust and that’s what gets people coming back in January.

3. Sprinkle in some value

It’s easy to get caught up in the Christmas chaos, but don’t forget why people follow you. Keep adding value: share tips, mini how-tos, or quick wins related to what you do.

Example:

• A VA could share “3 ways to save time before your Christmas break”

• A salon could post “Simple tips for keeping your hair healthy over party season”

• A café could share “Our top 3 festive drinks you have to try”

  
  

Be helpful. Be human. Be the brand that people actually enjoy seeing in their feed.

4. Jump on the trends (without losing your sanity)

You don’t have to do every trending sound on Instagram, but a well-timed reel with a Christmas twist can go a long way. Think “day in the life during December” or “Christmas chaos at [your business name] HQ.” Keep it real, light-hearted, and authentic.

5. Don’t forget your thank-you post

December is the perfect time to show gratitude. A simple “thank you to everyone who’s supported us this year” can be surprisingly powerful. It closes the year on a positive note and reminds your followers that they’re part of your story.

You don’t need to post every day. Social media shouldn’t steal your Christmas spirit. Schedule what you can, pop in for the odd story or festive selfie, and then switch off.

Your followers will still be there in January, hopefully a little more refreshed.