Thank You: One of the Easiest Things to Say, Yet Hardest to Write
The lost art of the thank you note
When was the last time you said “thank you” — like, not just because someone held the door for you, or let you pass by on a crowded sidewalk. But a well-thought-out, bonafide thank you? Next question: when was the last time you wrote (pen and paper) a thank you note?
Writing thank you notes is likely a lost art. But they can be so powerful in conveying your deep appreciation for someone.
A client referral, an introduction to a new prospect, a willingness to place their hard-earned assets under your control. These are all instances in which I believe warrant a hand-written thank you note.
Also, it has been proven that thank you notes oftentimes assuage the negative impact of other events that might trigger a client. Not as a reactive measure but as a proactive measure. For instance your client might be more forgiving about a service issue if they just received a thank you note from you. Not always, but what an easy hedge by you.
Here are the key elements of a well-scripted thank you note.
Great stationary — get something that matches your personality.
Good penmanship — doesn’t have to be perfectly scribed, but make it is neat and orderly.
A clear “thank you” — duh
Specific reason why you are thanking them — could be for “the referral to Jane” or just for “being a great client”
A salutation and signature — make sure they recognize your name, so you might have to print rather than John Handcock it
Final Challenge: Write three of these a week for two months and see what kind of response you get. My guess is that at least 2 of the 12 get a direct reply. The other 10? Likely going towards future credits in your favor.