If you are anything like the 77 percent of Americans who didn’t finish holiday shopping, you’re scrambling frantically for the perfect gift. With Chanukah here and only four days left till Christmas you are probably feeling hopeless; especially if you are a business owner giving gifts to employees or clients. The solution: Keep it simple by giving thanks.
It’s amazing what a (handwritten) thank you card can do. The gesture says so much more than any other store bought gift. Not only is it simple and inexpensive, it almost guarantees a smile by the recipient. It’s also the perfect excuse to buy pretty stationary and corny cards. While you can purchase thank you cards with a message, I prefer blank cards so I can personalize it. Giving each note a special touch makes all the difference… and it’s good for business. Clients really do appreciate the effort business people make in getting to know them and building a relationship.
Of course, this strategy isn’t only reserved for holidays. Sending notes all year is a great, fun idea. Try sending two thank you cards everyday. I know what you are thinking… “I don’t have time to send two cards to clients everyday.” Trust me. It doesn’t take a lot of time. I spend about ten minutes five days a week sending personalized thank you notes. And I must admit that they are ten minutes well spent; especially since I they seem to be well-received judging by the responses I receive. I also love the tingly feeling I get when doing something to bring a smile to someone’s face.
It also helps to keep a postcard in handy so you can write a thank you note anytime and mail it. Besides, it’s cheaper to keep clients than find new ones. Writing a thank you note only takes a few minutes and contributes a lot to the relationship.