What's New > Maximizing Your Face Time with Santa
Posted 12/17/2007
MEMORANDUM
TO: Children Around the World
FROM: SE2
RE: Strategies for a Successful Sit-Down with Santa
Your meeting with Santa will be brief so have your talking points and “elevator pitch” ready. Smile – appear friendly and approachable.
If Santa responds with challenging questions like “Have you been a good boy/girl?” quickly bridge back to your positive message (“the bottom line is…”).
Do not say “no comment,” which carries a connotation of guilt. Also, remember that there is no such thing as off-the-record with Santa. At all costs, avoid the phrase “mistakes were made.”
If you have been naughty over the past year, offer a four-part apology*:
1) Admit your mistake (“I tried to flush my baby sister down the toilet”)
2) Express remorse (“I was wrong to do that and I’m truly sorry”)
3) Acknowledge harm (“I realize that my actions may have set back my baby sister’s potty training for several years”)
4) Offer a plan to repair the damage (“I’ll help change her diapers, even the poopie ones”)
Leave time for the “ask.” Keep it simple and direct. Make eye contact and bring a leave-behind (your wish list).
Make sure you close the deal before you leave Santa’s lap. “So, can I count on you?” If he agrees, jump off his lap – never sell past the close. Follow up with a personal letter, restating your key message points.
*Thanks and happy holidays to sociolinguist Deborah Tannen for these guidelines as to an effective apology.