Show Your Gratitude

***After you read this post, be sure to visit me at my new home here.***

Does this image look familiar to you? It's a basic thank you note, one that arrives in the mail. When was the last time you got a thank you note? I bet it was the first piece of mail you opened that day, right? Handwritten notes are special, and they have become more special in recent years, as it has become commonplace to connect via email.

Better question: When was the last time you sent a thank you note?

No matter how many times I say it, I still hear of people sending their thank you notes via email. While that's perfectly fine, the top 1% of all achievers take the time to do 1%-er activities ... among them, sending a hand-written thank you note when appropriate.

Let's talk about when it's a great idea to send a note: 

(a) someone does something nice for you or on your behalf (which may save you time, energy and/or money), 
(b) someone treats you to a meal or a cup of coffee, 
(c) someone refers you a potential client*, 
(d) when you receive a gift of any kind (even if you don't love it), 
(e) someone takes the time to meet with you, or 
(f) you feel the need to say thank you. 

Show your gratitude, and always be sure to say it in writing.
It only takes a few moments to write out a note, and I suggest making it a Notable Note: one that will leave an impression and express how appreciative you feel.

Keep a stack of notes on your desk with a roll of stamps. Make time each day to send a note to a few people who have made a difference in that day. Those few minutes may be the catalyst for something amazing happening later. Attorney John Kralik used this method, and it changed his life. You'll enjoy reading his book.

Simple Steps for Writing a Notable Note:

The Rule of Three:

• Take 3 minutes: a notable note will take three minutes or less to write, address, stamp and send
• 3 Sentences: The heart of your note will include three sentences:
• Thank you for taking the time to meet with me.
• I enjoyed learning more about the clients you serve and your philosophy on wealth management.
• I look forward to making powerful introductions to you and for you.
• Within 3 days. Be sure to mail your note within three days

Notable Notes:

• are written in blue ink. It looks original and positive.
• are simple: Use unbranded cards with a symbol or your monogram. It’s a personal note.
• are dated: Include the date in this format: Friday, January 3, 2014
• contain an appropriate salutation: Use a title and various parts of someone’s name to signal more or less familiarity, more or less formality, such as: Dear Alexandra {or Lexi} or Dear Bill {or William}
• include a P.S. {post script} with a call-to-action, asking the recipient to call or email you.

Be a 1%-er and start sending notes today. You'll be glad you did!

*If you actually get the new client, be sure to do something expressing your wallet's gratitude, in addition to a note.