In a previous post, I wrote about a connection I’d made on LinkedIn, who contacted me to voice a project for him.
A few days later, I received an email from a colleague of his. Client #1 referred new Client #2 to me!
I was so grateful. Earning someone’s trust is what business is all about. I’m appreciative for the business.
I think it’s important to say Thank You. But not because you to get something like more business or another referral, but simply because… you’re thankful.
Here are a few ways I say thank you to clients:
- a handwritten thank you note that is mailed to them (snail mail is cool again!) – and if I have time, I’ll go get a gift card to put in the thank you card
- a gift card to Starbucks via email
- an Amazon gift card
- a phone call
I particularly like things like Starbucks gift cards these days because they are so immediate. I just go in to the app, type in the info, and voila, a gift card shows up in the person’s inbox. Starbucks will even let you know when they’ve opened it, so you’re assured they received it.
Note: I do worry that some people don’t like Starbucks. I get it. But I figure, if they don’t use it, they use it with their kids, or give it to someone. I don’t mind them re-gifting! It’s helping them in the long run, and that is the point.
Sending notes or gift cards doesn’t have to be just for business received. You can send thank you’s, or a little note to say, “Hey, I was thinking of you, hope you’re doing well!” to your agents or clients. People like to know others are thinking of them. It shows we care about each other.
That’s what relationships are all about.