Goodbye, Summer. Hello, Fall. Incorporating Labor Day into Your PR Strategy
by Kim Marks Malone
Labor Day unofficially marks the end of summer and the changing of the seasons as students head back to school and thoughts begin to turn to the (eventual) arrival of fall. In Memphis, chilly weather may not be on the horizon, but who can’t help but think of sweaters and boots when pumpkin spice lattes show up on coffee shop menus?
For many, the meaning of Labor Day has gotten lost in the barbecues, sales, and excitement of a three-day weekend. Unlike Memorial Day – a day for honoring and remembering American service members who have died in service – and Veteran’s Day – a day for honoring living veterans – Labor Day is a day set aside for us to reflect upon and honor a different kind of American hero – the American worker.
Rooted in the labor and union movement, Labor Day is a time to reflect on the American work-life balance and to reflect on the past accomplishments and achievements of American workers.
Here are some ways you can incorporate Labor Day messaging into your PR strategy.
Acknowledge and celebrate hard work
Start by acknowledging the significance of the day and appreciating the relentless effort of the workforce – whether that’s your team or the broader community. A simple "Thank you for your hard work" goes a long way. Whether you're a product-based business or a service-oriented one, show gratitude.
Connect with community initiatives
Align your brand or organization with local Labor Day parades, picnics, or community service projects. Consider supporting or sponsoring these events to showcase your organization’s commitment to the workforce and the local community.
Offer special promotions
Make sure they align with the spirit of the holiday – perhaps a “hard work pays off” theme. This incentivizes sales but also celebrates the original intent of the day.
Tell a story
Share stories of your employees or even your own entrepreneurial journey. Highlighting personal narratives related to work, challenges, and success can create a human connection with your audience.
Labor Day is an opportunity to connect with your audience on shared values, stories, and respect for hard work. Approach it with authenticity and appreciation, and your messaging will resonate deeply with your audience.
