I love reading networking expert Andrea Nierenberg’s newsletter. She shares positive ideas that you can implement right away. Today she discusses the importance of staying in touch – something I’m sure we all could do better on!

Saying ‘thank you' to your clients, advocates, friends, family - in essence - your entire network, is always in style.

One of our New Year's resolutions needs to be—‘am I staying on people's radar screen enough—with a simple thank you, showing appreciation or ‘staying in touch.

It is human nature that when we reach out to someone in a sincere and appreciative way—it fosters stronger and better relationships. In business that can possibly lead to more referrals and opportunities.

I have always been a huge advocate of sending personalized, heartfelt notes and keeping up the ‘high touch' in a high tech world. Always having special interest types of cards and notes is the added bonus in that your recipient knows you really took the time to think of them specifically.

Competition is alive and well and whatever you do to sincerely stand out from everyone else can be helpful in earning or keeping the business or getting that opportunity you want.

Here are some reminders:

--The Time is now - as part of your retention strategy, send a personal note with in 48 hours of receiving an order, assignment, or ‘next step.'
--Show your Personal brand - send a card either with your logo or better yet something that also represents your client's brand.
--Put Thought into It - Write a short note expressing your thanks and be specific. An unexpected note that arrives in the mail always stands out.
--Relationship Marketing - Often it takes up to twelve ‘touches' before you make the sale or get the opportunity. Stay top of mind with frequent and sincere communication that brings a smile to their face.

Andrea Nierenberg is the president of The Nierenberg Group, a business communications company with a total process for educating, motivating and connecting people. Learn more at www.nierenberggroup.com

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