This marks the first post of the new blog, By the Bye. Given the timing, I thought I would talk a bit about 'giving thanks'.
It seems like a small thing, but saying thank you to someone for their support, hard-work, love, business, or time, is probably the easiest thing you can do. How you do it shouldn't matter, but a genuine note goes a long way (preferably hand written, but you knew that).
All the better if you personalize your gratitude with what you are specifically thankful for....
"Thanks for lending a hand with the chores".
"Thanks for teaching me how to share my opinion".
"Thanks for always being there".
Lest you think I've gone all sappy here, this topic arose after I received a piece of commercial mail over the weekend.
A letter from Bill Lambert (my tailor from Tom James of Boston, the custom clothier that fitted me with a few shirts about a year ago) had been sent to my new address.
He didn't have a coupon for me. Wasn't telling me about a "special", new product or service.
He was simply writing to give thanks.
Thanks for a being a customer. Thanks for choosing him and Tom James.
He connected by saying he knows, "times are tough", and "sometimes you just want someone to say thanks". Thanks for your business, even if it was a year ago.
He stood out by not just asking for more business. (that's what coupons, rebates, discounts, appreciation days, etc...are, after-all).
Of course, he wouldn't mind my business right away, but this letter shows that he understands the value of being human and building a relationship. He knows if he does this well, the business will come.
Bill was right.
His 'thanksgiving' was appreciated and respected. Sure, one could argue that he 'missed an opportunity' to 'sell more', and perhaps another offer would have been appropriate. Instead, he realized what works for his clients is compassion, understanding and the forging of a connection. Something everyone could do more of.
Especially corporations.
Coupons and discounts don't do this. They never will.
Thanks Tom James and Bill Lambert for being different.
That's good marketing.
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Have you had a similar experience recently? Are you surprised when people go out of their way to thank you?
What other co.'s could benefit from simply saying, "Thanks!"?
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Please accept my gratitude and appreciation for reading my first post. I look forward to keeping you engaged and fueling the conversation.....By the Bye.
Happy Thanksgiving !
Tony
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