THE ART OF THE HANDWRITTEN NOTE

They say the classics never go out of style!

The handwritten note is one of those things that will always have the ability to surprise you with joy.

“A handwritten note is like dining by candlelight instead of flicking on the lights, like making a gift instead of ordering a product, like taking a walk instead of driving. Handwritten notes will add a lot to your life. You can still use the telephone or the Web for the daily chores of staying in touch, but for the words that matter, it’s courteous, classy, caring, and civilized to pick up a pen.”  You’ll find this quote by Margaret Shepherd in her book “The Art of the Handwritten Note”.

When was the last time you sent a handwritten note to someone? I know it’s easy to send a quick email or an e-card but a handwritten note is so much more special. Never underestimate this personal gesture, a short handwritten note yields long results. 

You’ll want to send a note when:

   You have received a gift

   You were a guest in someone’s home

   You were treated to a meal

   You are replying to an invitation

   You are sending condolences

   You want to offer congratulations

   You need to apologize

Make this easy on yourself, keep your supplies handy, keep your message brief and most important, do not worry about penmanship (the person receiving your note will appreciate your thoughtfulness and will not be concerned about your handwriting).

THE HANDWRITTEN NOTE AS BUSINESS FOLLOWUP

Lydia Ramsey, author of “Manners That Sell – Adding The Polish That Builds Profits” suggests that successful people pay attention to the details and look for ways to build better business relationships. I would have to agree, when you take the time to send handwritten notes, you will stand out from your competitor for all the right reasons. Businesses that thrive are usually based on great relationships. Your clients receive hundreds of emails everyday, their mailbox contains only about 3% of personal mail, your professionalism and courtesy have a value that is lost with ‘instant technology’. 

Remember that your customers or clients have busy lives and unless there is some special reason not to forget about you, they will. The handwritten note is the most powerful follow up. The handwritten note will not be the only follow you make (I’m sure you’ve heard many time now, that 80% of new sales are made after the 5th contact) but it should be central to your phone, email and other mailed follow up efforts.

The handwritten note will help you build a relationship with your client; you have recognized them as an individual and let them know their business is important to you.

The handwritten note is also a great way to say Thank You for their business. 

The handwritten note may be old-fashioned but the time you spend writing them will be well worth it in terms of return business and increased positive word-of-mouth.

THE HANDWRITTEN NOTE IS MORE EFFECTIVE AND MORE EFFICIENT THAN INSTANT TECHNOLOGY. IT IS COURTEOUS, CLASSY, CARING AND CIVILIZED. SO, PICK UP A PEN!