Those of you who have been receiving our ENS on Sales over the last 11 years know it’s time for my annual politically incorrect, “Merry Christmas” message. (Although, I’m increasingly convinced that “politically correct” is an oxymoron because I don’t know any politicians who are “correct.” They all seem to care more about getting elected than they do about doing what’s right.)
I used to agonize over whether I should say, “Merry Christmas” to people but I believe in recognizing the role that history and heritage plays in making people, nations, businesses and cultures what they are, and Christmas is a part of my heritage I’m not ready to deny.
I’m not offended when a friend wishes me Happy Hanukkah, and I feel honored when another friend, from another faith, invites me to her New Year’s celebration in November. There is no denying that Christianity played a role in making North America what it is today…..good or bad.
And I have never seen anyone, in any faith, object to getting a day off on December 25^th, even though they know how the holiday originated, so Merry Christmas everyone!
Tis the season to rejoice and count our blessings.
As you celebrate over the holidays, I invite you to reflect upon how fortunate we are to be in this business.
Sure, emerging technologies and fragmented audiences have made our business more competitive, but we get paid for helping other people and it doesn’t get any better than that!
Whether we’re helping charitable organizations with a fund-raising campaign, or helping businesses to grow and provide more employment with our advertising campaigns, we’re helping, informing and entertaining people every day!
We have a purpose greater than a paycheck! We transform lives. We help needy children by promoting Christmas toy drives. We entertain people, adding laughter, music and insight to their otherwise boring lives. We keep people informed, make them think, and even let them know if they’ll need an overcoat on the way to work today.
We help businesses solve their problems and increase their sales.
Country singer Kenny Rogers once said “Find a way to get paid for doing something you love and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”  I think that’s where all of us are in broadcasting.
So Merry ….Happy……Greetings……Seasons…… Wishes….. however you say it – I wish you all the best as we tackle the challenges of 2014 and beyond. Merry Christmas from all of us at ENS Media!

          In “The Story of Civilization”, American philosopher and historian Will Durant wrote, “A great civilization is not conquered from without until it has destroyed itself from within.”
          Think of all the civilizations from the Roman Empire to Hitler’s Germany, and you’ll understand what he meant.
Every business, including broadcasting, is in itself a civilization.
If your infra-structure, staff morale, training, mission statement, vision and all of the other components which comprise your “civilization” or culture are strong and in tact, no external competitor or market condition can destroy you.
Stations which blame their competitors for their low rates or that blame their market or any other external conditions for their shortfalls should look inwardly rather than pointing outwardly.
The advantage of focusing on strengthening your civilization is that you control it. You have no control over what the marketplace or your competitors throw at you.
You do, however, control your own beliefs, convictions, systems and culture.
As Radio Ink publisher, Eric Rhoads, reflected on Radio Ink’s civilization in this week’s Radio Ink Headlines, he wrote:
          “While working on my budgets this week, it crossed my mind that I have not budgeted for growth. Yes, of course I budgeted for business growth — but what am I budgeting for the growth of my team members or myself?
Stagnation and the lack of fresh ideas not only kill our personal motivation, they negatively impact our organizations.
In my own organization, I’ve declared 2014 as a year for learning. I have budgeted to attend some events that will force me to learn and grow in new areas. Though it sounds extravagant, I have learned that dull leadership leads to dull companies. No matter how much I read, how much I study or watch, I’m most invigorated when I meet new people and learn about new concepts I need to understand.
It’s almost comical…. in a sad kind of way. Our industry is stagnant and predicting only about 1 percent growth in 2014. This is the same industry where, in many companies, people are not allowed to attend seminars or events. It’s kind of like cutting all promotion budgets and wondering why stations aren’t growing more in ratings and revenue.
Stimulation does not just happen. It comes from a deliberate attempt to learn. When you consider your 2014 plans, make it a point to plan for growth — personal growth and that of your team. The results will positively impact your business.”
         I couldn’t have said it better myself. If you’re planning on growing next year, contact [email protected] to arrange an online demo of the proven programs we have to make sure your civilization grows from within to increase your sales against all odds.