Elizabeth H Cottrell
In the age of text messages, emails, and cell phones, some would say a personal handwritten note is old fashioned and obsolete, especially for business correspondence. I disagree, and I've listed some top reasons you should be using personal notes in your business correspondence.
Please click the ones you like (or not) and add reasons of your own. Credit to list.ly for its wonderful interactive functionality around lists.
So few people write handwritten notes, so when someone receives one in their mailbox, it will be among the first things they open.
Even if your note has nothing to do with business, the recipient will think of you and your business when they read it, especially if your stationery includes business information or if you tuck in a business card.
Everyone knows you're busy. When someone receives a personal note from you, they feel special, because they know you had to first think of it, then write it.
Most people don't even think about writing notes, much less get around to it. When you write for any reason, your actions brand you immediately as someone who goes out of their way to make others feel valued.
Important life events happen to everyone in your business world, from your professional associates to your employees and your customers. Taking the time to acknowledge these shows the world that you care. Everyone would rather do business with someone who cares.
Never pass up a chance to say "Thank you."
• To a customer for her business
• To a prospect for his time with you
• To an employee for working harder than usual
• To a friend for a referral
• To a vendor for rushing a product your customer needed
How many other handwritten notes do you think your recipient will receive in the same day? Your note will ensure that you are noticed, thought of, and remembered warmly.
Whether your note is one of thanks, congratulations, encouragement, or sympathy, it reaches out and touches the recipient, bestowing a special kind of personal attention.
Each of your customers has a choice about where they buy the things you sell. More often than not, they will choose someone with whom they have a meaningful connection ...someone they know, like, and trust. Handwritten notes are powerful connection tools.
