I help entrepreneurs leapfrog over the typical potholes that derail most small businesses with inspiration, motivation, education, and support across a wide range of business topics drawn from over a decade of running my own business, teaching entrepreneurship for the City of New York, and coaching and consulting privately with dozens of women and minority small business owners. Honestly, why go it alone when help is an email away?
⭐️ Extra Credit ⭐️
I don't know about you, but I was raised to always send a handwritten thank-you note when someone goes out of their way to be helpful and/or supportive.
I know, I'm probably dating myself, by admitting that.
But, when I consider how that simple act has won me job interviews and offers, referral business and introductions, and a whole host of other opportunities, I still think it's a baller move.
Last week, I got a lovely note of thanks from an entrepreneur I'd spent some extra time advising following a free webinar.
She appreciated my encouragement and guidance in addition to my time, and I so appreciated her message of gratitude, which landed in my mailbox instead of my inbox.
That handwritten note tells me a lot about her, and it's something I'm going to remember.
That's part of the charm and power of thank-you notes.
Maybe you're thinking, "Oh, I always send a thank you email or text, so same difference." But no, you'd be wrong. They are not the same.
Think about the last handwritten snail mail card you received. If that message was in the form of an email or text, would it feel the same?
No matter your generation, there is something special about knowing another person took the time to pick a card, craft a message, find your address, and put that in the mail to you.
Digital messages are easy. Snail mail takes some effort.
Last year, my fellow coach Diana sent me a thank you note with a gift mug. I told her it was so not necessary. Her response? "I know, but I just wanted to."
And that's the thing with thank-you notes and gifts these days: You do it because you want to, not because you have to.
So many entrepreneurs I know second guess themselves when it comes to being that little bit 'extra.'
You have no idea how many clients and students have asked me if it's okay to send a card or gift in response to a situation. Let's just say, if I had a nickel for every time, I'd have a lot of nickels.
So, here's my rule of thumb:
If you want to express your thanks to someone beyond the usual email or text, do it!
Because your wanting to is reason enough.
In other words, you do you.
If you are that kind of 'extra', embrace that about yourself and don't be afraid to show it. It will be more appreciated than you know.
Until next week, why not give and get some extra credit by sending a note of thanks or support to a mentor or friend. It may be exactly what they need to hear right now.
Looking to finish out the year strong?
Get yourself on my fall calendar.
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PS - In case you missed it, last week I advocated for No More Hustle Culture 🚫.
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Easily Said & Done
I help entrepreneurs leapfrog over the typical potholes that derail most small businesses with inspiration, motivation, education, and support across a wide range of business topics drawn from over a decade of running my own business, teaching entrepreneurship for the City of New York, and coaching and consulting privately with dozens of women and minority small business owners. Honestly, why go it alone when help is an email away?
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