I am often asked about the value of handwritten notes, mainly by people who hope that they will not have to drag out pen, paper and stamps from deep in their desks!

Recently, I attended a networking event for my company. The speaker that night spoke about good networking practices. One of the practices she referred to was making sure to follow-up with everyone you meet at these events. She aptly referred to it as ‘pinging’.

The word ‘ping’ takes its name from a submarine sonar search — you send a short sound burst and listen for an echo or a ‘ping’ coming back. So, in networking terms, when you send out a ping, whether with an email, a phone call or a hand- written note, you’re inviting that person to ‘come back’ and communicate with you thus beginning a relationship with that person…one that will hopefully benefit you both long term.

A hand-written note differentiates your business from every other business!

I always make it a practice to send out hand-written thank you notes to everyone I meet at these events. I like hand- written notes, because they’re a physical manifestation of your company (your brand) to that potential client, strategic partner or referral source. A hand-written note sets the tone for your company. Hand-written notes also differentiate you from most other businesses. Ask yourself when the last time you received a hand-written note from someone you met at a business setting was?

Quite simply, hand-written correspondence is a wonderful way to build your business. When I say build your business, I am not just referring to acquiring new customers. I am also referring to keeping the customers you have!

Customers and clients want and need to be appreciated, remembered and thanked

According to a study conducted by the Technical Assistance Research Project in Washington DC, 68% of customers leave because of ‘perceived indifference’. In other words, customers don’t think you care about their business. As Sir William Jones said, ‘The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated’. Our customers and clients want and need to be appreciated, remembered and thanked.

Another great advantage in sending a personal note….people tend to keep these cards. Whenever I receive a nice note from someone, I display it one my desk for awhile. Every time I see the card, I am warmly reminded of that person or business.

So, when should you send a hand-written card to someone? Here are a few suggestions:

• Every time you meet someone new and get their contact information (i.e. a networking function, a business meeting, a training session, on the plane, a social party, waiting in line at the grocery store, etc.)
• When a customer makes a major purchase from you or sends a referral your way.
• When you embark upon a joint venture with a new company.

If you do not have time send out personal handwritten notes, never fear…please check out Send Out Cards today! We can help you “ping” more of your prospects in less time!

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