#1204 Write it
I once wrote a note of gratitude and appreciation to an employee. He was not one of my direct reports, but I was a senior manager, and in my comings and goings, we crossed paths a few times a day. Passing his desk one morning, I caught him doing something right, pointed it out, and then reinforced my impression by dropping him that note. His name is Pat.
I left that company in 2008. Then, in 2014, I went back there to present a technology solution that would fit well in their business. While walking through the various departments during my assessment, I saw Pat, and we took a moment to catch up. It was then that I noticed my note pinned to the wall of his cubicle.
The firm moved in 2010, and in 2013, Pat was promoted and moved to another department.
I point this out because that note was read and saved. Then, it was moved to a new location and subsequently to a new cubicle in a new department.
I must tell you it wasn’t that great a note. It was a basic compliment and expression of gratitude, but there it was, 7 or 8 years and two moves later, prominently displayed next to the picture of Pat and his girlfriend at Disney.
A couple of weeks ago, my wife got a call from a nurse who used to give Alicia blood transfusions in our home. It had been more than 20 years since Deborah had seen or heard from her. She said she was going through some things and reread a note Deborah had sent to her expressing gratitude for the excellent care she gave our daughter. Twenty years later, that woman reread the note and was compelled to call Deborah to tell her how much it meant to her.
I send and receive 50-plus text messages a day and at least double that in email. The convenience of instant communication cannot be overstated, but a note, handwritten on a lovely little card, has staying power.
A few weeks back, I asked you to write to a mentor and tell them how much they meant to you. “The pen is mightier than the sword.” Today, I bring you these two poignant examples of the strength of a bit of gratitude, jotted down on a little card, for a big effect.
Think about someone who merits a sincere compliment or a bit of thanks from you. Grab a six-pack of note cards at the dollar store and make someone’s day.
It’s been said that people won’t likely remember what you said or what you did, but they will remember how you made them feel. Write a note and make someone feel great today.
Own Your Sales Gene…