The holidays can be tough for sales professionals—including reverse mortgage originators (yes, even us!). The dreaded holiday slump often hits hard, leaving some professionals scrambling to recover in the new year.

Years ago, while working in financial services, I noticed a peculiar phenomenon: colleagues would essentially vanish in December. Long before the days of social media, there was no way to confirm if they’d gone into witness protection—or simply gone AWOL.

The truth? Many assumed no one wanted to hear from them during the holidays. Sure, it’s fair to take Christmas Eve or Christmas Day off the table, but the rest of the season? It’s an opportunity waiting to happen. The holidays can amplify financial stress for homeowners, making the reverse mortgage conversation even more relevant. Rising expenses and dwindling bank balances might turn the equity locked in their homes into a lifeline they’re ready to explore.

A December slump will echo painfully in February. 

To avoid that fate, here are six strategies reverse mortgage originators can use to stay active and engaged over the holidays:.

1. Send a Holiday Greetings Email

Reach out to past clients, undecided prospects, and even those who ultimately didn’t move forward. Skip the sales pitch and instead share a warm, heartfelt message that simply lets them know you’re thinking of them. A genuine connection goes a long way toward keeping the door open.

2. Mail Holiday Cards to Referring Partners

Attorneys, CPAs, and realtors are still fans of the holiday card tradition—and they’ll notice yours. Write a short, sincere note and hand-address the envelopes for a personal touch. These small gestures keep you top of mind with the professionals who help fuel your referrals.

3. Host an Open House

Too late for a holiday open house? No problem—plan a New Year’s event instead. The focus shouldn’t be on pitching but on expressing gratitude and maintaining visibility. A casual gathering keeps your name front and center with clients and partners.

4. Share Gift Ideas by Email

Help clients solve a common seasonal problem: finding the perfect gift. Create a quick list of thoughtful gift ideas tailored for different age groups or budgets. They’ll appreciate the gesture, and it’s a great way to stay relevant without being ‘salesy’.

5. Book January Appointments Now

If December feels hectic, start setting appointments for January. Be proactive—get meetings on the books now, and use your CRM to remind clients a few days in advance. This keeps your pipeline moving once the holiday chaos subsides.

6. Send a New Year’s Card

Stand out from the sea of Christmas cards with a unique New Year’s greeting. It’s a simple yet memorable way to show you’re thinking of your clients and partners as they start fresh in the new year.

These strategies can help you turn a potential holiday slowdown into an opportunity for meaningful connections and future business. What’s your go-to tactic for staying engaged during the holidays? Share your ideas below—we’d love to hear them!