Business etiquette: write thank-you notes

Think about how much you appreciate a handwritten thank-you note. Now turn that courtesy into a regular business practice. It’s important to show appreciation for the relationships that are crucial to your personal or business success, says Chris Kirby, senior business consultant, Securities America. Automate your thank-you process: Have your staff prepare two complete handwritten notes each week, Kirby says, and use them to thank someone who is valuable to your practice. “When you put your thank-you system on autopilot, you’ll be amazed at how much the ‘thank yous’ come back to you and your team.” And the notes do more than charm your clients. “Not only will clients appreciate the gesture; it will build your confidence that you are developing stronger relationships,” Kirby says.