Effective Use of "Thank You" Notes
Thank you notes are ususally used when someone gives you some type of gift. The other time thank you notes are
used, in the employment industry, is after an interview. A few days ago, I had another networking opportunity
on the train and learned of yet another way to effectively use the "thank you" note.
There Was the Networking Part
Just about every encounter is a networking opportunity. Even if you don't get the person's name and contact
information, your exchange leaves a lasting impression, one that will encourage them to greet you when they see
you again and engage you in another conversation. As time passes, you'll find you've developed a professional
relationship. My fellow traveler is one I've seen on the train several times in the past. Since it was really
early and the temperature still wanted to be just above freezing, and because the train hadn't arrived at the
platform, we chose to wait in the glass elevator rather than endure the cold. So we established our
commonalities and came up with a reason to share some observations.
We've been silent fellow travelers until this day. Our occupations were not important as part of the opening
conversation. But as private thoughts percolated and caused an oral or physical expression, it was time to
share its basis. It derived from work. This was a time when knowing the person's occupation was essential to
the exchange.
Freelance Work
My friend (who still has no name) is a television cameraman. Since he's union, he'll be called to do a job that
may be a one-time deal. His philosophy is go in, do the job in the best manner possible. Get the shots. Make
certain they worked. Take them back to be aired.
He doesn't get too much more involved in the scene than that. There was a tacit understanding that he got to
know the names of the folks he's working with. Nothing goes over like a lead balloon faster than working all
day with someone and at the end of the day still calling them "Hey you!" If for no other reason, I'm certain he
got to know names so he could find the person responsible for scheduling the shoot and the subjects of the
shoot. But he said he kept his involvement simple and unfettered. He didn't allow himself to get drawn into the
drama and the politics. Instead, as I said, he did his work and wrapped up his involvement until called back.
The Call Back Insurance
What does he do to make certain the folks at the shoot remember him and call him back? A few things. First he
makes certian he's done a great job on all counts. He keeps his nose clean. No politics. No personalities. He's
really even tempered and quiet.
Finally, when he's finished the job, he turns in his time and the invoice. But there's one more thing he does
before he turns in his time invoice. He writes on the face of it, "Thanks for the job," and signs his name. The
simplicity of the act makes it outstanding. Every time the supervisor looks at that invoice, they remember the
cameraman, the job he did, and his demeanor. It's a reminder of who takes care of every detail and is a strong
candidate for future use.
The Thank You Note, Revised
Now who would think of saying "thank you" to someone for hiring you to do work? My fellow commuter did. He
seems to stay busy.
Thanks Yvonne - I enjoyed your post.
"Thank you!" on the back of the check that you deposit sends a nice message as well. You'd be surprised how many people look at the signature endorsements on the back of a check.
;)
Great suggestions, Yvonne. My father-in-law used to be a manufacturer's sales rep and worked with a lot of owner-operated retail stores in rural areas. He used to write onto his invoices a thank you and sign his name, but his signature included a happy face within one of the letters. Very personal. Very memorable.