Stand Out In Work at Home Business The Write Way
When was the last time you received a handwritten note from a
business associate? It may be that it was too long ago for you
to remember. On the other hand, if you have gotten one lately,
you know exactly who sent it and when. Handwritten notes have
become almost extinct in the business world. So if you are
looking for ways to stand from the crowd, to be noticed by your
colleagues and clients, try putting pen to paper whenever you
have the slightest excuse.
There are few acts more impressive than handwriting a letter or
a note to someone with whom you do business or would like to.
Most people think that writing notes by hand requires extra time
and effort. Ironically, it can be quick and painless if you do
it frequently and follow these tips:
1. Have writing supplies close at hand. Store stationery and
stamps in the most convenient place in your desk. When you need
to send a note, all you have to do is reach for your stationary,
dash off a few lines, address the envelope, put the stamp in
place and mail it.
2. Keep your message brief. These are notes so you only have
to come up with three or four sentences. If you attempt to
compose more than a few lines, writer's block is liable to set
in and you will never get past "start."
3. Develop a system. Before you head out of the office to a
business meal or function that someone else is hosting, address
an envelop to your host. It will be a breeze to jot down your
short message when you return.
4. Use the appropriate professional stationary. Both
single-sided correspondence cards and fold-over notes with the
company name or logo imprinted on them are business-like and
will represent you and your organization well.
5. Poor penmanship is no excuse unless your handwriting is
totally illegible. The person who receives your note will
appreciate your thoughtfulness and will not be grading your
handwriting. If your penmanship does not meet your standards,
it is never too late to improve. There are numerous resources at
your library or on the Internet to teach you to write legibly.
6. Use any occasion to get noticed with a note. A few of those
instances are when...
You have received a gift
You were a guest in someone's home
You were hosted to a meal
You received a business favor
You are replying to an invitation
You are sending condolences
You want to offer congratulations
You need to apologize
7. Make your message timely. Whether you are sending a note of
appreciation, congratulation or condolence, do it as quickly as
possible. A thank you should go out within 24 to 48 hours.
However, don't forgo sending a note because you think too much
time has elapsed. There is no definite statute of limitations
on appreciation.
8. Understand that e-mail is not a substitute for the personal
handwritten message. The Internet is fast, efficient and
remote. If you are corresponding by e-mail immediately following
a meeting with a business associate, include your expression of
gratitude, but don't let that stop you from sending a second
message by ground.
Successful people pay attention to the details and look for ways
to build better business relationships. When you take the time
to send handwritten notes, you will stand out from the crowd for
all the right reasons. Your next big sale or job promotion may
came about as a result of your doing business just a little
differently.
(c) 2005, Lydia Ramsey. All rights in all media reserved.
Lydia Ramsey is a business etiquette expert, professional
speaker, corporate trainer and author of MANNERS THAT SELL -
ADDING THE POLISH THAT BUILDS PROFITS. She has been quoted or
featured in The New York Times, Investors' Business Daily,
Entrepreneur, Inc., Real Simple and Woman's Day. For more
information about her programs, products and services, e-mail
her at lydia@mannersthatsell.com or visit her web site
http://www.mannersthatsell.com
Disclaimer: The information presented and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors
and do not necessarily represent the views of Work-at-Home-Business.com and/or its partners.
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