What do you do when you receive a business referral from someone?
Referrals are the heart -- and often lifeline -- of the small business owner. They are the reason you network, treat your clients and customers well, and work hard at your job. You want to be recommended. But this doesn't apply to just the business owner or independent contractor; people who are working for different companies, whether large or small, those in the job market and individuals contemplating a change of employment all do the same thing. Referrals and recommendations bring us business, promotions, new positions, and often times, fresh opportunities.
So how do you say "thank you"?
You can, of course, always send off a quick email or make a telephone call to express your thanks. The personal contact of a call is a nice touch, especially if you know the person well (and if you remember to follow through and are able to connect with the person promptly.)
But an email or telephone call puts you in the ordinary category ... be extraordinary and send a handwritten note!
If you are so inclined, include a gift card for a coffee spot or a movie rental ... something small and casual, and mention in your note that the next coffee break or chance to see a movie is on you.
Thank
you notes take just a few moments to write. Three or four lines will
do it; they should be short, simple and meaningful. People will
remember that note long after they have forgotten what they did for
you!
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Remember...
A friend recently received a referral from a complete stranger. The person who contacted him about his services had heard about him from an unknown source. I think that is quite a compliment; someone had obviously heard such good things about my friend that his name was shared with an individual in need, despite the lack of personal knowledge or experience.
The only difficulty? Sending an immediate thank you.
Still, he can -- and will -- track the information down. It is the follow-up that makes the difference.
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