Thank you Notes for Business
by Barbara Patinkin

Handwritten thank you notes are the gold standard to relationships in business and friendships between family and friends.

In business, these gestures are often done for nothing more than goodwill.

Here are five tips on how successful people write thank you cards.

1. Begin with something that the person will remember from your discussion. 

In the first three to four words after the name greeting. For example: " Added 56 people because of your Twitter recommendation - thanks". It does not have to be related business, just something they know you talked about, but not necessarily know how important it was to you.

2. As a follow-up to a sales meeting, add your name after your opening:

For example: "Dear Mr./Ms. Person, this is John Doe from ABC Company, the manufacturer of “name product” or the provider of “name service.”  Now the person receiving your note will not have to guess who you are.

3. Write by hand. Relationships are built with “high touch” not “high tech.”

A handwritten note indicates that you took the time to write. We all have busy schedules and, when someone receives your note, they will remember you for taking the time to remember them.

4. Send your note no later then a few days after you meet

It is always better to send and receive a note later than not at all. However, don't send it too early or it will appear that it's a “routine” for you and not something that was personalized just for them.

5. Set yourself apart from the crowd.

Use stationery that has your name imprinted on the card or note. Select a design that is simple and distinctive.

6. Joanne Black, author of  No More Cold Calling, states  “Personal notes are always the mail that gets opened first."  

Acknowledge an order or referral with a hand written thank-you note. Your thoughtfulness will be remembered now and in the future.