How Greeting Cards Help You Network

Sometimes doing things the old-fashioned way will get you noticed, respected, and appreciated. While everyone else is sending out emails, you can stand out from the crowd and grow you business network and social network by using greeting cards to make a permanent and lasting impression. This will help you find a new job. The following 7 tips will show you how greeting cards help you network.

1. Send a Note To New Acquaintances

Any time you meet someone new, whether it be a business contact or someone you meet in your personal life, you can show that person how special they are to you by sending them a greeting card via snail mail. It does not need to be fancy. In fact, it would probably make a better impression if you stick to something simple in design but unique.

To really make it something they'll really remember and appreciate, include a short personal note. For example, you could say something like, "I enjoyed meeting you at the XYZ Conference and I thought your ideas were intriguing. I hope we can chat about them again in the future." For a new personal contact, you could say something like, "I enjoyed talking with you the other day at the soccer game. You would be a great asset to our parent organization. I hope you come to the next meeting on Dec 16, 7:00pm. I'd also enjoy getting together for coffee sometime."

2. Send Greeting Cards To Your Clients Or Customers On Special Days

When a client or customer signs up for your mailing list, ask them for their birthday. Then, get into a habit of sending your customers a birthday card. In this instance, it's best if you do not try to sell them anything. Just keep it simple, letting them know that you remembered them on their special day. The same can be true if you happen to learn about one of your clients having a new baby, having a child graduate, getting married, or another special event where you can express your genuine joy for them through a greeting card. They will treasure this!

3. Send Out Greeting Cards For Unannounced Sales

Don't overdo this but occasionally it is nice to send your clients or customers unannounced sales. Make it something truly special and let them know how much you appreciate their continued business. You could also slip an extra coupon into the card for them to give to a friend or family member.

4. Handwrite the Name and Address On the Envelope

These days, our mailboxes are filled with junk mail. Chances are if you print out a "professional" address label, your greeting card and note will just get tossed. However, there is something quite magnetic to the receiver of a card when the name and address on the envelope have been handwritten. Your greeting card will almost assuredly get opened if you do this.

5. Be Sure To Handwrite the Personal Note Too

When they open the greeting card, it will make a very favorable impression if the note inside is highly personalized and handwritten. Take your time and write in your neatest handwriting. It doesn't have to be perfect but do make sure it is legible.

6. Use a Real Stamp and Make It Really Count

Don't use a postage meter to pay for postage or let the post office worker run it through a postage meter either. Instead, take the time to select a nice looking stamp to put on the envelop. Ask the postal worker behind the counter to see the whole collection of stamps they offer and try to pick one that seems the most appropriate for the person to whom you and sending the greeting card.

It is also a good idea to stock up on stamp designs you really like. You could even say in your handwritten personal note, "I picked out the XYZ stamp because..." For example, if you met someone at a city council meeting that might be interested in one or more activities of your nature club, you could select a stamp featuring wildlife or a particular habitat. Likewise, if you met someone who might be interested in joining your sales network, you might select a stamp that that shows a money sign or another financial icon.

7. Make Your Own Cards For an Even More Personalized Touch

Making your own cards does not have to be difficult and you do not need to be an artist! Simply buy some 8x11 inch colored construction paper. Cut each sheet in half and then fold these two halves to make two cards. You can then paste a nice photograph in the center of the front of the card and leave the inside blank for your personal note.

We Wish You Great Success

Try to put the 7 tips above on how greeting cards help you network into action right away. It can help you find a new job, advance your career once you do, and help you in your personal like. Once you develop this habit, you will be amazed at how much it helps you!

10 Things To Do the Day After You're Laid Off

Getting laid off can be a devastating experience. The initial shock may put you in such a bad mental state, it can be hard to figure out what to do. While you get started writing your cover letters and getting your resume updated, there are 10 constructive things you can do the day after you're laid off to get you through the crisis and get your life back on track.

1. Let Go Of Your Negative Emotions

It is natural to be depressed, and even angry, when you get laid off. However, if you wallow in those emotions too long, it will only make matters worse. Go somewhere and scream if you have to, cry your eyes out if you feel like it, and get those negative emotions out of your system as soon as possible. Then, get ready to take the bull by the borns and find solutions to your problem.

2. See What You Can Temporarily Cut Out

Make a written list of your bills and expenses. See if there is anything you can temporarily eliminate. Perhaps you don't need cable, or at least not premium cable. Cancel subscriptions you could live without. Downgrade your cell phone package. Cut everything you can so you won't have as much going out.

3. Get Really Frugal

This is a time when every penny counts. Cook your food at home and don't eat out. Look for ways to trim your grocery bill. Save on gas money buy not driving the car as much. Don't waste electricity. Turn your heater or air conditioning down to a minimum. Turn the temperature on your hot water tank down.

4. Call a Family Meeting

If you have a spouse and/or kids, call a family meeting and explain the situation. Let them know that you all need to pull together to get through this crisis. Ask them if they can think of ways to save money and/or make money. Ask them to be as frugal as possible.

5. Get Your Resume In Ship Shape

You'll probably want to start looking for a new job so get your resume in order. If there is a career center in your area, go there and ask them to review your resume and offer suggestions. Schedule an appointment for a mock job interview. If they don't offer this in your area, ask some of your family or friends to help you stage a mock interview.

6. Reach Out To All Your Contacts Via Email and Social Media

Use the speed and efficiency of the internet to let all your contacts know that you are looking for work. Specifically ask if they know of any openings now or in the near future. List your skills, accomplishments, and traits that make you a strong job candidate.

7. Check CraigsList 2-3 Times a Day

While you are looking for long-term work, seek out short-term gigs to bring in some money. Even if you have savings, it is best to use as little of it as possible. CraigsList has a special section called "Gigs" where you can find a variety of short-term income opportunities. When you're out of work, a half day temporary job can really help out.

8. Get Creative

There are all sorts of things you can do to make money if you are really motivated to do so. For example, some people collect things off the side of the road on garbage day and resell these items. Some have a garage sale, some sell on CraigsList, and some sell the scrap metal. You could put up fliers for lawn mowing, landscaping, hanging Christmas lights, cleaning out garages, walking dogs, house sitting, running errands, driving people who can't drive, tutoring, sewing, etc. The possibilities are endless so get creative!

9. Consider Starting Your Own Business

This may be your opportunity to turn lemons into lemonade. Take some time to consider starting your own business. Brainstorm about what type of business you might like to start. Ask your family and friends to help you brainstorm too. Even if you find a permanent job, you may want to keep a lucrative side business going.

10. Plant a Garden

You can easily save hundreds of dollars off your grocery bill growing vegetables. Don't worry if you have never done any gardening. You will find it super simple to raise lettuce, herbs, and kale even if all you have is an apartment patio/balcony. Gardening is also a great stress reliever and it gives you time to think things over.

Good luck to you and keep your head up!