The Lost Art of Personal Thank You Notes

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Read time: 2 Minutes

We move a mile a minute now, where communication often feels like it's reduced to quick emails, DMs, Tweets, Slack/Teams messages, and automated responses, and of course phone calls. We are overloaded with ways to get ahold of someone.

There's a timeless practice that's fallen by the wayside:

The personal thank-you note.

Specifically, the act of sending a handwritten note to decision-makers after a significant interaction, opportunity, presentation, speaking engagement, etc.

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There are numerous reasons handwritten notes can go the extra mile for you and your business:

• Handwritten direct mail achieves a 9% response rate compared to 1% for email (Data & Marketing Association).

• 80% of recipients feel special and appreciated when they receive a handwritten note (U.S. Postal Service).

• 94% of Americans open and read personal handwritten notes, compared to only 25% who open and read marketing emails (Qualtrics).

While emails may be efficient, they lack the personal touch and sincerity that a handwritten note embodies.

It's a lost art that can set you apart in a sea of digital noise and leave a lasting impression on those who receive it.

In a world where genuine connections are increasingly valued, taking the time to pen a heartfelt thank-you note can make all the difference in building relationships and fostering opportunities.

Let’s dance.

Stand Out Amongst a Crowd

In a world where digital communication dominates, there's something undeniably powerful about the personal touch of a handwritten note.

It's a gesture that transcends the boundaries of technology and leaves a lasting impact on those who receive it.

Think about it: in a sea of emails flooding decision-makers' inboxes, what would make yours stand out?

Even with all the follow-ups, tracking capabilities, DMs, phone calls, “I’ll get back to you”, etc. What can you do to make sure you stand out among the rest of the people who are also vying for the same attention.

And they might have stronger relationships than you?

A heartfelt, handwritten thank-you note could be the key to unlocking doors and forging meaningful connections.

As we are in the relationship business, we want to connect and foster long-term relationships.

Does this have to be done on every single transaction you do? No.

But choose the significant meetings and events that you have that you feel you greatly valued someone’s time and you want to let them know it.

Take the Extra 30 Seconds to Write

Imagine the scene: you've just had an important meeting with a potential client or partner. You've laid out your ideas, made your pitch, and now it's time to follow up.

Sure, you could shoot off a quick email, but why not go the extra mile?

Grab a pen and some stationery. Craft a genuine message expressing gratitude for the opportunity to connect.

Share specific moments from your interaction that resonated with you. Let them know that you value their time and insight.

It's not about flashy designs or fancy paper.

It's about authenticity.

It's about taking the time to acknowledge someone's impact on your journey and expressing gratitude in a meaningful way.

What Should I Include

1. Express Genuine Gratitude: Begin by expressing sincere appreciation for the opportunity to connect or interact with the decision-maker.

   1. Let them know that you value their time and expertise. For example: "We appreciate you taking the time to meet with us..."

2. Highlight Specific Points: Reference specific aspects of your interaction that resonated with you or made an impact. This shows attentiveness and reinforces the connection you shared.

   1. For instance: "I was particularly impressed by your insights on [specific topic] and appreciated the opportunity to discuss [specific idea] in more detail..."

3. Reiterate Interest and Next Steps: Close the note by reiterating your interest in furthering the relationship or discussing potential opportunities.

   1. This sets the stage for future interactions and reinforces your commitment to the connection. You could end with something like: "I look forward to the possibility of collaborating further and am excited about the potential for [specific outcome or project]..."

Go to Amazon, Crane, or your favorite store and search for “personal stationery cards” and find one that best fits you. A box (10-20 cards) should only run you anywhere from $20-$35.

Buy Some Stamps

How many unread emails do you have? Have many unread LinkedIn DMs do you have? Now put yourself in the position of your customer and a decision maker…what do you think their unread emails and LinkedIn DMs look like?

They will prioritze what they look at and want to respond to.

Look at the age of your business owners

Go old school. It shows you put in the extra time, energy, and effort. And they will appreciate it.

It’s about quality over quantity.

That’s all I have this week. See you next week.

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