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When
was the last time you received a handwritten note from a business
associate? It may be that
it was too long ago for you to remember. On the other hand, if you have
gotten one lately, you know exactly who sent it and when.
Handwritten notes have become almost extinct in the business
world. So if you are looking for ways to stand from the crowd, to be
noticed by your colleagues and clients, try putting pen to paper
whenever you have the slightest excuse. There
are few acts more impressive than handwriting a letter or a note to
someone with whom you do business or would like to.
Most people think that writing notes by hand requires extra time
and effort. Ironically, it
can be quick and painless if you do it frequently and follow these tips: 1.
Have writing supplies close at hand.
Store stationery and
stamps in the most convenient place in your desk.
When you need to send a note, all you have to do is reach for
your stationary, dash off a few lines, address the envelope, put the
stamp in place and mail it. 2.
Keep your message brief. These
are notes so you only have to come up with three or four sentences.
If you attempt to compose more than a few lines, writer’s block
is liable to set in and you will never get past “start.” 3.
Develop a system. Before
you head out of the office to a business meal or function that someone
else is hosting, address an envelop to your host.
It will be a breeze to jot down your short message when you
return. 4.
Use the appropriate professional stationary.
Both single-sided correspondence cards and fold-over notes with
the company name or logo imprinted on them are business-like and will
represent you and your organization well. 5.
Poor penmanship is no excuse unless your handwriting is totally
illegible. The person who receives your note will appreciate your
thoughtfulness and will not be grading your handwriting.
If your penmanship does not meet your standards, it is never too
late to improve. There are
numerous resources at your library or on the Internet to teach you to
write legibly. 6.
Use any occasion to get noticed with a note.
A few of those instances are when...
You have received a gift
You were a guest in someone’s home
You were hosted to a meal
You received a business favor
You are replying to an invitation
You are sending condolences You
want to offer congratulations
You need to apologize 7.
Make your message timely. Whether
you are sending a note of appreciation, congratulation or condolence, do
it as quickly as possible. A thank you should go out within 24 to 48
hours. However, don’t
forgo sending a note because you think too much time has elapsed.
There is no definite statute of limitations on appreciation. 8.
Understand that e-mail is not a substitute for the personal
handwritten message. The
Internet is fast, efficient and remote.
If you are corresponding by e-mail immediately following a
meeting with a business associate, include your expression of gratitude,
but don’t let that stop you from sending a second message by ground. Successful
people pay attention to the details and look for ways to build better
business relationships. When
you take the time to send handwritten notes, you will stand out from the
crowd for all the right reasons. Your next big sale or job promotion may
came about as a result of your doing business just a little differently. © 2005, Lydia Ramsey. All rights in all media reserved. Lydia Ramsey is a business etiquette expert, professional speaker, corporate trainer and author of MANNERS THAT SELL - ADDING THE POLISH THAT BUILDS PROFITS. She has been quoted or featured in The New York Times, Investors' Business Daily, Entrepreneur, Inc., Real Simple and Woman's Day. For more information about her programs, products and services, e-mail her at lydia@mannersthatsell.com or visit her web site http://www.mannersthatsell.com
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Copyright / Atlantic PC, Inc. |
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