Whether you design viaducts, sell casters or run a turkey farm, expressing gratitude to those who help you get the job done can go a long way.
But before you fire off another “thank you” email, consider pen and paper to make a lasting impression. And more importantly, one that breaks through the digital noise.
The Harvard Business Review offers up fantastic advice on how to thank people in your business network.
When it comes to hand-written notes, author Evan Baehr suggests being specific on why you’re thanking them, show how they made an impact on you, avoid using generic adjectives, and make it personal.
For example, “Dear Vince. Thanks for meeting with us. You have an amazing story and we really enjoyed the tour. We hope to work with you in the future.”
While the intentions might be pure, this is the kind of “thank you” note we’re all familiar with. It’s cold and forgettable.
Instead, try this.
“Dear Vince. Thank you for meeting with Wheely Great Casters. We were so impressed by your organic greenhouse. Who knew 16 varieties of lettuce existed, and you can grow them year round? We look forward to the opportunity to make your operation even more efficient with mobile plant beds.
PS. Thanks for the tip about rhubarb! My wife already put it to good use and made one heck of a pie.”
This is the kind of note a sales prospect will remember. It shows that you listened, remembered the specifics, and you’re eager to solve a problem.
For more tips, see the full blog post.