Wednesday, August 13, 2014

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!