By Nancy Friedman, Keynote Speaker, Customer Service Expert; Founder and President, Telephone Doctor Customer Service Training, St. Louis, MO

Not sure if I’m unusual or not. (Please don’t ask my friends.) However, after each sale (product or service) I’ve ever made, I write a handwritten thank you note.

It’s in my DNA. It’s not “I usually do.” It’s not something “I forget to do.” It’s like brushing my teeth; I do it automatically and as close to the sale as possible. That shows excitement.

They’re not long notes. And there is no ulterior motive other than a sincere thank you. I don’t mix in asking for a referral in a thank you note. Then it’s not a thank you note. It’s a manipulative move IMO.

But I do know, after a handwritten thank you note, the reception I get on follow up calls appear to be very welcomed. It also appears not too many other folks do it.

On the other side of the fence, I don’t get many thank you notes from the vendors I use. And when I do, it makes a mental note to me that says ‘nice, thoughtful, company.’ And certainly person. And I remember that they sent one. They stand out.
Thank you notes keep you out of the Ocean of Mediocrity and puts you in the Island of Excellence. (One of our conference programs.)

A handwritten thank you note stands out. And is appreciated. Email thank you’s are “OK,” however, I decided a long time ago I didn’t want to be just “OK.” You should make that decision as well.

Get some personalized note cards or purchase a batch of thank you notes at the drug store. They normally come with envelopes. Buy some FOREVER stamps and run with it.

You’ll thank me!