Interior Arrangements | The Secret Weapon: Note Writing

Two Tip Tuesday
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The Secret Weapon: Note Writing

Note writing is almost a lost art these days as our lives get busier and faster-paced. Even though we live in a high tech society where email, text messaging and cell phone communications are the norm, there are many times when sending a real, hand-written note is the best way to make a personal connection.

Tip #1: Take Note

Think about it---who doesn't like to be applauded, appreciated or acknowledged?

Correspondence doesn't have to be dry and predictable---even if it's business related. In this day of information overload it's important to be short and to the point, however try to always include a personal reference. For instance, mention a sport, hobby or topic that is special to the recipient. Customizing the note by acknowledging children or pets is always a sure way to be memorable.

Idea#1: Remember to edit your note to ensure correct spelling and punctuation.

Idea #2: Always sign your note. If your handwriting is not the most legible, type the body of the note, but always sign it by hand.

Examples of notes you can send:
1. Congratulatory (did someone receive an award, accomplish something special or celebrate a milestone---birthday, anniversary, wedding, new baby)
2. Birthday (include a birthday quote or gift card for ice cream)
3. Thank you (for the referral, introducing you to a new client, for their business*).
4. Enjoyed seeing you (when you've crossed paths anywhere!)
5. Announcement (an interesting seminar, a new service you have added to your business).
6. Saw you in the news (include the clipping from the newspaper or reference the radio or television program they were on).
* Don't forget to send a note like this when you DON'T get the business too.

"Thank you for the opportunity to present my bid proposal. I am sorry I can't help you at the current time, however I hope that in the future you'll contact me again. Please feel free to call if I can assist you in any way. Best wishes for a fast sale (or enjoyable decorating experience.)"

It can be of a personal nature, like a reminder of a local art fair or event taking place or it can be business related---a reminder that you appreciate referrals, have added a new service or an invitation to visit your website.

For instance:

P.S. My business is built on repeat and referral business. If you know someone who would like help preparing their home for sale (and/or) would like a fresh and inviting new look and feel in their home using existing furnishings and done within a day, please let me know.

TIP #2: Make it Automatic

Consistency is the key to making note writing a part of your business routine. It is essential to have systems in place, such as:

Allocating time: Mondays are my day to write notes, as well as do other business related paperwork.

Materials: I am always on the hunt for cards and I keep an upright, hanging file rack with tabbed manila folders with these categories: birthdays, anniversaries, get well, congratulations, keeping in touch, sympathy for easy retrieval. Make sure you always have a good supply of stamps too.

Information: I keep things I want to remember about clients and business contacts in my database program. You can also collect this info on a hard copy client profile sheet.

I find a wealth of interesting info in both my local newspaper, industry publications and online.

Written notes are meant to make connections and grow relationships. By making note writing an integral part of your marketing plan, you will not only enhance your business relationships, but you will also improve your bottom line.

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