Business apps are becoming more and more ubiquitous, and LinkedIn tops the list for its usefulness as a marketing and networking tool. LinkedIn is connecting current and potential colleagues, businesses, customers and clients faster than ever before, which allows individuals and businesses to network with just the click of a button. However, while these speedy technological advances are something every professional should embrace, I’ve found that there’s also something to be said for doing some business practices the old-fashioned way. Business thank you cards are falling out of style, but I believe they’re really one of the most useful tools for many types of professional interactions. Take a look at these reasons you should be sending business thank you cards:
To market yourself
For an individual, a thank you card can be an unparalleled marketing tool. Because so many people are communicating solely online or over the phone, a handwritten note goes a long way toward making you stand out from the crowd – and not just after a job interview. Any time someone offers you a professional courtesy, gives you a networking boost or makes an effort to help you in any other way, send a card. More often than not, you’ll find the card helps you make a closer and more personal connection than you would have otherwise.
To market your business
No matter how big or small a business is, thank you cards can be used to improve customer or client relations, boost word-of-mouth marketing and keep employees feeling appreciated. Many businesses thank their customers and clients around the holidays, which means a handwritten note at any other time of year will stand out even more. And while you should absolutely send notes to prospective clients after initial meetings, thank your existing clients for their business as well. The extra effort you take to write the note will almost always pay off – especially if they talk about your company in a positive light to friends and colleagues. When it comes to employees, thank you cards are an easy way to boost morale (as long as they’re sincere). In my opinion, you can never send too many to show your team appreciation.
Tips for sending business thank you cards
So what’s the best way to send these business thank you cards? Take a look at these tips:
- Use personalized stationery: Especially as an individual trying to market yourself, personalized stationery is the most professional option. Plus, it makes a huge impact if your letterhead includes your phone number, social media information and any other ways your connections can reach you.
- Write it out: When you write it by hand, the message seems more personable and genuine, which can make you or your business seem much more approachable and caring. Never use a pre-printed card and just sign your name because it seems completely insincere.
- Think about your message: The message should be short and sweet, but make sure you’re being clear about what you’re thanking them for. It’s also a good idea to offer a way to connect at the end of the note, e.g., “Here’s my phone number, please give me a call if I can ever return the favor.”