A Simple “Thank You” Goes a Long Way
Share
This subject was addressed in earlier publications (Creative Materials for Job Search and The Resume; Just Part of the Package). Since the publication of those works use of technology and Social Networking (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.) has increased greatly. So, let’s look at this again.


People love to be acknowledged and recognized for what they do or have done. This would include an interview, providing you with a referral, information or networking. Perhaps they’ve met with you face to face or over the telephone; they’ve spent time with you. What better way than formally saying “Thank You”. There are two ways to do this and no, a quick email is not one of them.


The old fashion way


This refers to the hand written Thank You note; not a formal typed Thank You letter; there is a difference. The hand write note is short and personal, plus can cover enough information to be effective and visibly sincere. I can hear you now; “But my hand writing is terrible!”. Well, then use block print, not cursive. My observation is that this issue is becoming increasingly generational. We have an entire generation in the workforce or in post secondary education that have had a mouse in their hand since kindergarten and did not have penmanship in elementary school.


When the Thank You note is hand written you are displaying a “dying art” and showing that you goes that extra mile for people. The envelop should also be hand addressed with the return address being your home, not work address. This almost guarantees that the recipient opens the invitation sized correspondence personally. Practice, practice, practice your penmanship to make sure that it’s legible. These Thank You cards can be purchased at any office supply store (in two sizes, based on how much you’re going to write) and need to be gender neutral. They will all say “Thank you” or “Thank You for Your Time” and be blank inside.


Put together a prototype of the basic note and then individualize it to the person or situation and mail it off in a timely manner. I recommend a 24 hour time period so that it’s fresh in everyone’s mind. Include at least one, if not two of your 2-sided personal business cards for their convenience. You will be showing sincere gratitude, keep yourself fresh in their mind and doing what few people will do. This increases your odds of success.


Using Technology


Social networking is here to stay (although it will continue to evolve at a rapid pace). LinkedIn provides one of the best ways to thank and/or acknowledge those in your network. Not only will they see that item, but so will the rest of your network. You would put this in the Network Activity (Share an update) section of your home page. It will also stay in your Profile for a while for others to see.


Multiple applications are the key here:


The person you’re thanking sees it in print and feels good. Other people in your network see it and it elevates their impression of you. You have social graces and have developed a personal relationship with people. Again, you’re increasing your visibility and the odds of someone connecting or re-connecting with you. People will start contacting you, reducing your workload.


You’re paying attention to your network to acknowledge their achievements, progress or awards. This enables you to nurture and strengthen the bonds with these key people.


You may be responsible for being the high point of someone’s day! We’ve all had times when we feel burdened, unloved and underappreciated. Getting a card like this in the mail or in one’s LinkedIn account could be the best thing that’s happened to them that day. With a “hard copy” (card), the recipient can keep it to show others or simply look at it every now and then to boost their spirits.


Remember that technology is only a tool to get the job done. Personal connections, sincerity and a simple “Thank You” go a long way. Follow through with this lost social/business etiquette feature to stick out from the crowd (your competition).