Personal Notes Cross Cultures–Powerfully

Oh, the power of a personal note. It need not be elaborate–just a few phrases handwritten on a nice note card and dropped in the mail. What an easy yet high-impact tool for making a good impression and strengthening relationships. Because all too few people write personal notes nowadays, doing so will distinguish you stand from the crowd.

Not long ago I returned from an international conference. While there, I ran into old friends and acquaintances, some of whom I had last seen six or more months ago. Many of these acquaintances had heard from me via a personal note or an email since we last saw each other. Who appreciatively mentioned my correspondence? The people who had received my personal, hand written notes. Overwhelmingly so. Personal notes made a big impression.

Taking the time to jot a few lines on a note card and mail it to a client, colleague or new contact makes an impact. Although doing so takes little time, it requires more time than a common email or text message. Writing a note the old fashioned way shows that you value the person enough to him or her some personal attention.

For an even bigger impression, write with a fountain pen and use good quality card stationary. Some people won’t notice the difference, but those who value nice quality writing paper and instruments will be favorably impressed.

Personal attention like this also makes a big positive impact across miles and cultures. When you can’t interact face to face, a hand written note provides a critical personal touch. Sophisticated international businessmen and women will appreciate the gesture, regardless of culture.

If you have an interesting and applicable article to forward to your contact, do so and attach a hand written note–not a typed one prepared by your assistant.

And, if you move to a new job and your new employer sends out a formal announcement about your joining, include a short personal note inside the announcements that go to your contacts. Most of those announcements look very similar, so distinguish yours with a note.

So…write on!