Thank You and Brand You!

Thank you. Perhaps the two most powerful words on the planet, thank you can take you a long way toward achieving your goals.

Never underestimate the power of a sincere “thank you” for:

> Gifts (graduation, birthdays, anniversaries)

> A job well done

> Taking the time to provide resources or assistance

Verbal is “uber cool” and email/ecards are “chillingly correct,” but a thank you card or handwritten note “ices” your standing as poised and polished professional. Yes, when I say handwritten, I mean the kind you put a stamp on (not the date/time stamp). Your personal image, career and business expansion are worth at least 41 cents for a USPS stamp, right?

Right! Whew—Thank You … I knew you’d get the point!

Why a handwritten note? In today’s digital world, you must figure out a way to separate yourself from the pack. Handwritten notes do that. And, you get a chance to practice your penmanship. Yes, I said it. We all know someone whose signature line needs work!

In addition to business/personal matters, learn to say thanks … just because. Thanks for hiring me as an intern … thanks for being a great mentor … thanks for your insight regarding our recent team project … thanks for being a great volunteer … thanks for lending your special talents to the task at hand … thanks for lunch … thanks for your time and expertise … thanks for organizing that fundraiser … thanks for nominating our organization for an industry award … thanks for being a good friend … thanks for picking me up when my car died … thanks for listening … thanks for just being there!

The thank you doesn’t have to be long, just sincere. Recipients appreciate your thoughtfulness and the thank you will spiral to a promotion, new business, industry recognition and other untold rewards. As I said, these two words are very powerful!

Most importantly, it builds a positive image of Brand You.

For top-of-the line thank you notes and stationery, check out Dempsey and Carroll, high quality engravers since 1878; http://dempseyandcarroll.com. While pricey, you make a stellar impression that’s worth its weight in gold! Remember, you get what you pay for. Quality counts—particularly in the image business.

While budget conscious options abound, consider your corporate identity and image. Work to consistently build Brand You and make a lasting, positive impression.

Thank you for reading this post. Now thank someone in your network for all they’ve done for you!

>> MI