Pen & Paper Marketing
Ideas On Ways to Simplify Your Marketing & Grow Your Business
A Newsletter from Write On Results | August 2007
 
Write On Results | www.writeonresults.com | 301-624-1705
 
Do You Say Thank You?
Why, When and How to Send Thank You Cards.
 
You've likely read business articles that talk of the importance of sending Thank You cards to potential clients, current customers and networking acquaintances. However, if you're like me, you nod your head and say "oh yes... Thank You cards... very good idea," then you get back to work.  Months pass and opportunities to write Thank You Cards come and go and you send nothing.  You're too busy, you forget, you didn't have cards - there's always a "good' reason.  But, the minimal time we invest in sending these cards can pay off big-time later down the road.  We'll be remembered, we'll make a good impression, and heck - we'll have made our grandmothers proud.
 
So, let's talk about Why, When and How to send business Thank You Cards.  And, let's be clear here - we're not talking about sending emails or voicemails - we're talking about a real paper Thank You card, hand addressed & first-class stamped.  Something they can see and feel, that won't immediately be deleted or tossed in the trash.

WHY to Send a Thank You:

  • Show others you appreciate them. Let them know that you value their time and business.
  • Stand out from the crowd.  Who will you remember more - the sales rep that sends you a handwritten card or the one who only calls to see if you're ready to buy? 
  • Show that you're organized.  When someone follows up promptly with a Thank You Card, people think, "gee, this person really has it together."  That wouldn't be such a bad way to be remembered would it?

WHEN to a Send Thank You:

  • Do it immediately after delivering a product or service - send it while you're fresh in your client's mind.
  • After meeting with a potential client. Thank them for their time.
  • Post networking follow-up.  You'll definitely be remembered.  Just don't be too salesy in your note.
  • After receiving a referral from a partner or customer - We should all hide our heads in a hole if we don't do this!

HOW to Send a Thank You:

  • Integrate Thank You Cards into your everyday work.  Make it your final "step" after providing a product or service or attending a networking event.  
  • Do it IMMEDIATELY. Don't wait until tomorrow. Do it now. The longer you put it off, the greater the chance that you won't send it, or that they'll forget who you are. 
  • Buy a stack of cards & stamps today - even if you don't have anyone to send them to. This way you'll always be ready.
  • Hand address the envelope and inside message.  If your writing isn't legible, then pay someone to do it (let me know if you need a quote!). A lasered label is too impersonal.
  • Don't get hung up on the card - if a Thank You Card isn't appropriate for the situation, use notecards or other stationary.
  • Don't think that an ecard is OK.  An ecard can be deleted in less time than it takes for them to open your envelope. Let them touch and feel your message. 

When it gets down to it, it's quite easy to use Thank You Cards as an everyday part of your sales, marketing and customer service plans. For the little time it takes, you'll see big results in strengthening customer relationships, building a valuable network of contacts, and just making people feel good.  Now, let's get off our seats and go get some cards & stamps!

Take Care,
Kathy Hrach 

A Great Quote...
 
"Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone." 
~ G.B. Stern
 
A Great Read... 
How to Win Friends & Influence People  
How to Win Friends & Influence People
by Dale Carnegie:
Since we're talking about the importance of saying "Thank You", I thought it would be fitting to feature "How to Win Friends & Influence People" by Dale Carnegie.  This classic book on effective communication is a must read for any marketer or sales professional.  Not only does it offer great advice on how to win people over to your way of thinking (without manipulating), but it also stresses the value of showing appreciation.  I try to read through it at least once a year.  Anyone who masters the techniques in this book will surely find success both professionally and at home.
 
 
About Me, About Us...
I'm Kathy Hrach, Co-founder of Write On Results, a direct marketing firm that specializes in real, hand addressed mailings for increased response rates. 
 
While I love all of the new technology available for sales and marketing professionals, I believe that sometimes a simpler, old-fashioned approach in working with customers can be most effective.  My goal for this newsletter and my business is to keep things simple and personal, keep an open mind and always be learning.  Please feel free to email me your thoughts at khrach@writeonresults.com.
 
 
Write On Results
10 North Wisner Street, Suite A
Frederick, MD 21701 - USA
Web: www.writeonresults.com
Phone: 301-624-1705