How A Handwritten Card Can Increase Business

If you are a small business you will know that a large part of your time is spent attracting new business and referrals and one of the most effective and best ways to do this is by sending out hand written notes and cards to customers.

At first glance this may not seem practical to a business owner for the following reasons.
1. You need to develop a system to track people's important dates/information, which can be overwhelming when you think about the number of people you meet.

2. You then have to go to the card store and find the right card. This can be a very time consuming and costly if you have to drive.

3. After that it's the writing and posting of the cards.

4. The cost of the cards could average between £1-2.00 per card depending on what you get.

However do not overlook this method. There is something powerful about sending a client or patient a hand written note or card. It conveys that you are thinking about them and that they are worth your time and effort to write. Believe me in an age where the personal touch seems to be missing from many aspects of our lives. It speaks a lot.
If you are just starting out you may be able to do this for every customer, if not provide this service to your very best customers.

You do not have to say much, even if it’s only to thank them for their purchase and offer some after care. People appreciate it and even if they do not contact you straight away, they are more likely to keep the card and come back to you eventually, providing you follow up. If you fail to follow up regularly you may lose that one customer that could turn your business around.

Out of sight is out of mind. Someone who may not need your services now, may need you in six months time, but will they think of you first before anyone else. By keeping in touch regularly and sending them a hand written personal card from you, they have no choice but to stop and think about you, even if it is only for a moment. Do this several times a year and you will be in the forefront of their minds.

So get into the habit of sending out at least three hand written notes or cards a day thanking clients for their custom and offering help.

A. Keep a stack of letterheads, cards, envelopes and stamps with you at all times.

B. Write the note immediately after seeing or interacting with customer while the details are still fresh.

C. Keep the note or card personal and sincere.

D. Keep the note short and sweet.

E. Be alert for any opportunity to send out a handwritten note or card.

Not only will you feel better about yourself and make a difference to others but see an increase in repeat business and referrals.