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Seasonal Goodwill – Creating the right mood music

One of the ironies of the Xmas period is that the most frenetic, congested, over-hyped, commercially-crazed weeks of the year is meant to be imbued with a sustained veneer of bonhomie which we often refer to as seasonal goodwill!

There is little logic, but somehow it seems to work, as few people complain about the fact that they must suffer increased aggression on the High street or longer delays in the car park and simultaneously try to be nicer to everyone they see.

Retailers discovered a long time ago that the muzak they play in shops can influence how their customers behave. The Salvation Army also made this discovery. That’s one reason why their Bands entertain us in the shopping centre at this time of the year. Even the dreadful piped pop carols of the 1980’s are believed by some to alter the surrounding atmosphere and create a rather more benign environment.

Creating the right mood music is important for a whole range of human reactions. Those of us involved in community involvement and consultation initiatives are particularly vulnerable. The best prepared consultations will struggle if the mood music isn’t right, and if the right conditions have not been set for holding a particular debate.

 

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