Staying better connected through the December rush

December really is a unique time of year. There’s the excitement and anticipation of Christmas, but along with that comes extra stress, shorter deadlines and the added pressure of delivering for your customers.

According to Zen research, almost half of people say losing the internet for a day is more stressful than being stuck in traffic. Over a third say no WiFi in winter would be worse than no heating. And 39 per cent believe they spend more time online than sleeping!

More than half of the people we surveyed said the internet helps them reconnect with friends and family – something that feels especially important at this time of year.

And the point of all these statistics? Staying connected is more important than ever. Especially at Christmas.

Keeping your business moving – and your customers happy

For small businesses, December brings its own special pressures. Customers expect quick replies. Orders need to go out on time. Teams are trying to wrap things up before the break. And with more people working flexibly or remotely, a reliable connection becomes the glue that keeps everything running.

A stable connection helps you:

• Reply quickly when customers get in touch.
• Keep online payments flowing without delays (especially when 35 per cent of people say losing online banking is more stressful than losing their wallet).
• Keep cloud apps, calls and collaboration tools running smoothly.
• Avoid those mid-task “wait… is the WiFi down again?” moments that can derail your day.

But what’s a business to do?

A few simple festive checks that cost nothing

Before we get into better connectivity options, here are some quick, free (call them festive) tips that can help things run smoothly this month.

• Restart your router and key devices – A quick reboot can work wonders.
• Check router placement – Out in the open, not tucked behind the tree or in a cupboard.
• Update laptops and apps – Don’t wait for your device to spring an “update and restart” at 4:58pm.
• Encourage wired connections for big uploads – A cable is still your best friend.
• Share a simple ‘what to do if…’ guide internally – Which can save a lot of panic later.
• Double-check cloud logins for holiday cover staff – It can avoid the dreaded “I can’t access the system” message.

All simple, all free, and all surprisingly effective. But if you’re looking for even stronger connectivity to take you through the year’s busiest month and beyond here are some more permanent options.

Faster full fibre

Full fibre gives your business the speed and stability you need for busy days. Smooth video calls, quick uploads, snappy card machines – it all helps reduce waiting times and keeps your customers happy.

Enter your postcode, and find out what connections are available at your address.

4G backup for peace of mind

Things do go wrong from time to time – especially in the winter, and when you could most do without it. 4G backup gives you a simple safety net. If your main line drops, you stay online, your customers stay supported, and no one is left staring at a “no internet connection” message.

Find out more about 4G backup, visit our full fibre page or get in touch.

CloudComms that keeps you talking

CloudComms makes call handling flexible and reliable. If your team’s split between the office and home, or you’re running shorter days, you can forward calls, manage queues and make sure customers always reach someone who can help.

It’s flexible, cost effective, and scalable from single line to as many as you need. Find out more about CloudComms from Zen here.

Better connected – in every sense

Being better connected isn’t only about speeds or cables. It’s about giving your teams the confidence they can get the job done without interruption. It’s about keeping the people you support moving. And it’s about knowing that, whatever December throws at you, you have a connection you can count on.

It might not be peace on earth, but at this time of year it’s peace of mind that can go a long way.