Wait? What’s that giant sucking sound? Oh, don’t worry, it’s just the post-holiday vacuum!
It’s on the horizon. That inevitable moment when Christmas songs vanish from the airwaves and decorations are stashed away until next year. (Except, of course, for those neighbors rockin’ the year-round holiday lights.)
So as the good cheer and warm vibes fade, radio stations often find themselves grappling with a peculiar challenge: how to keep the energy alive after the festive fervor has subsided.
This is a challenging time for radio imagers in particular. Maintaining excitement and listener engagement becomes paramount, especially after the prolonged hype of the holiday season. So, how do you keep the airwaves buzzing and your audience tuned in?
Firstly, it’s crucial to plan ahead to keep that momentum going strong with a burst of creativity. Shake things up with fresh imaging concepts and dynamic promos that capture listeners’ attention. It’s also a great time to unveil any new jingles, or station imaging voice, or tease the big events and contests planned for the weeks and months ahead.
Consider tying your branding into upcoming events or special campaigns. Whether it’s the anticipation of winter sports, the buzz around awards season, or the excitement of local “FeBREWary” festivals, aligning your imaging with exciting events keeps your station relevant and resonant with your audience.
Now, the age-old question: less or more? Come January, some stations like to keep it lean and mean, with reduced spot loads and less imaging. While simplicity has its allure, a little splash can go a long way. Striking the right balance between restraint and innovation keeps your station’s identity dynamic and distinctive.
As your imaging calendar flips, resources like SPLAT! Radio Imaging can be an essential resource. With a deep library of imaging tools, voice elements, sweepers, and more, SPLAT! empowers your station to craft memorable, on-brand imaging that captivates and entertains your audience between the songs.
So in 2024 avoid that sucking sound and the post-holiday vacuum. Head into the new year with a fresh approach and loads of energy that will carry you through the winter months and into the excitement of spring.