| In addition, our pens are terrific at writing personal notes that make people's lives richer and more fulfilling. Just yesterday, I received the most incredibly motivating thank you note from a gentleman who participated in my training session for a client in Santa Monica. Just when I thought that the art of "the pen" was gone, here was a beautiful note from Slater. He wrote: "...your program was of a particular interest to me because at the time of your presentation, I was about half way through reading your book. I was so surprised and excited when I heard you were our presenter. I am positive that the lessons and techniques I learned will contribute to my personal growth and success..." When was the last time you wrote a thank you note to a client? (No cheating, now, I mean using a pen, not a keyboard.) If it's been awhile, you may want to consider the meaning of a personal note. You don't need to write like your College English Professor (private joke for those who know me), in order to get your point across and make someone's day brighter. Just a few lines, written with sincerity, and you have it made. If it's been awhile since you uncapped your Mont Blanc, here are three steps you can use to organize your next note: Step 1: Begin with a "Thank You" after the salutation. For example: "Dear Frieda, Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me on Tuesday in your office." Step 2: Next, tell her how you can use the meeting with her in the future. For example: "I especially enjoyed learning more about your organization and how we can work together on your department's growth plans." Step 3: Then share with her what action you are going to take. For example: "Let's circle back around when you return from Spain and schedule a follow up demonstration." Lastly, end the note on a positive. For example: "Have a wonderful vacation." Sign your note with either a closing such as: "Regards", "Sincerely", or "All the best". If you have company stationery, that's fine. Otherwise, it's best if you send something even more personal. In our office, we've been using a company called, "Profits in Progress" (profitsinprogress.com). Each month, they send me a beautiful packet of cards and envelopes with a motivational quote on the front. I use these to send to colleagues, clients, and networking contacts. An easy-to-travel-with carrying case holds the cards, and the convenience makes it easier for me to follow through regularly. People enjoy the cards and I like sending them. So, it's great! So this summer, set yourself a goal of sending out 5 cards per week. Watch your contact list grow, and remember, the power of your pen is profitable! (c)Renee Walkup, All Rights Reserved, www.salespeak.com 678 587-9911 SalesPEAK, Inc., 5579B Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Suite 366, Atlanta, GA 30338, USA | |