The First Call Is the Beginning of Many

Follow-up with cards, notes, gifts, get-togethers. Find opportunities to stay on the “memory screens’ of your contacts. Focus on tuning into the radio station MMFIAM—“Make Me (the other person) Feel Important About Myself.” Stay in touch, learn about them, and make connections that will be helpful in their life. Here are five convenient ways to remain connected to your business contacts:

• Handwritten Notes: Send a personal note in the form of a “FYI” (For Your Information), “Congratulations!” “Nice talking to (or meeting you),” “Thinking of you,” or “Thought you would be interested.” Since handwritten notes are so rare, the ones you write will make an impression.
• Holiday Cards: Seasons greetings and special occasion cards let your contacts know you care about what’s special to them. Consider the profile and interests of your contact when sending a card. Your recipients will continue to be surprised and happy to hear from you. I use a very cool system that allows me to send real, physical cards and campaigns all the through the computer. Yet the mail is delivered into your recipient’s office or home physical mailbox. Go to www.appreciationpower.net and send a free card on me to see how it works.
• Interesting Emails: A creative e-mail with a message tailored to your recipient can also make you stand out. Forward interesting online articles and websites, inspirational quotes, pictures, videos, or a monthly tip. Personalize your e-mails with a friendly note or signature and keep your contact’s needs in mind. Again social media makes this easy and fun.
• Your blog, articles, or newsletters: Send your contacts your own published articles or create one if you have yet to do so. Compile your articles into a blog with tips and techniques that can help advance their business. Write a personal note with each article or newsletter to grow and keep these relationships.
• Gifts: Sending a nice gift sets you apart and shows your contacts you appreciation. Whether sending food, flowers, or a book, be sure to consider your recipient’s preferences and habits. Send a gift that can be shared with others in the company. Do what works for you and makes your client happy, and remember keep it professional. And think, “How would I react getting this particular gift.” Think it through—one size does not fit all.

Think of staying in touch as proactive and, as a nice way to nurture your network regularly. When the opportunity arises to ask for some advice, you can do it easily because you have built a solid relationship.