The technology has advanced so much that we are always on emails, blackberry, laptop, computer, palm pilot. We communicate behind a computer screen... These days the practice of using handwritten notes to convey information to others seem so ancient and long ago!
Not that I am old fashion or anything, because I am the one that you can probably reach me within 2 minutes once you sent me an email... But I am a true believer in handwritten notes...Especially in this day and age, it can often mean the difference in standing out from the crowd, especially given its rarity these days.
Last year (2008) I thought I should try to write a handwritten note every week to a past client, a friend, an aquaintenace that I met at an networking party or social gathering, or anyone that you think may be able to connect you with a buyer or seller. And guess what? 40% of my deals have came from those handwritten note, and it is only logical to step it up few notches this year!
here are some helpful tips to write a handwritten note:
- You do not have to write to everyone in your database. For me, I wrote to past clients that I connected with, someone that I felt comfortable with, someone that I can maybe go to lunch or coffee with, someone that I can befriends with.
- Set a goal: 2008 was one card per week for me, but maybe it can be one card per month for you. If you set a goal, set a realistic one, this way you will not have any excuses not to follow through.
- Write from the heart: Remember, it is a handwritten note, so it is all about personal touches, I always start the sentences with "Hi... I have been thinking about you, how have you been? how is your family? "
- Keep it brief: Again, this is a personal NOTE, so do not write an essay, you want someone to actually read your note and not think it is a book. If it is a card, I would only write on one side, not the entire bi-fold.
- Sign off with maybe a telephone call the following week, or email contact, or lunch/coffee date. It is always important to ask for meeting or more connection at the end of the card.
- AND, I always enclose 2 business cards (sometimes more) in the note. One card for them to keep, one for them to give out.
I don't know about you, but I always open up those handwritten cards, and envelopes first, perhaps this is why I have always receive a phone call, or an email or two once the card is sent out!
Give it a try, I am sure you will be surprised!
Cindy
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