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Past Tips & Articles
Lasting
Impressions
"We were very
satisfied with the
first impressions seminar. The presenter was fully qualified,
enthusiastic, and knowledgeable about the subject matter."
Participants from
(Richmond) City University
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"The
Etiquette
Advantage" is a
free monthly online publication from 1st Impressions,
Inc. It is geared for those who want to enhance their
self-confidence, heighten their communication skills, and outclass
their competition.
This free subscription publication should come to you only if you have
requested it or because you have a pre-existing relationship with Patricia
Whitaker or
her business, 1st
Impressions, Inc.
Visit us on the web at www.1stimpressionsonline.com
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The impact of a handwritten thank-you note is
often overlooked in today's fast-paced "why-write-something-when-I-can-email-it" world. A note written
promptly and sincerely is an important ritual of etiquette that is much more
effective and appreciated than a phone call or electronic message.
Here are some general guidelines to follow:
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Handwritten thank-you notes should be written to
thank someone for a gift, a business meal or for a favor done in a networking
relationship.
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Signing your name to a pre-written card is
almost never acceptable. Using unique
informal cards or stationary will be noticed and appreciated.
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The appropriateness of a sincere thank-you note relies on
its timely arrival to the recipient. Between one day and one week is most
appropriate, but it's always better to be late than never.
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Start by expressing appreciation - "Thank
you for the beautiful picture frame."
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Mention the gift's usefulness - "It is the
perfect for my office. You know I enjoy seeing pictures of my family during the
day - especially while I am working on time consuming projects."
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Express the hope for a future meeting - "You
have been a great mentor to me. I look forward to meeting with you again
soon."
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Even if you've thanked the gift bearer in person, it's
always nice to send a follow-up note. The best part about a handwritten thank-you
note is that it becomes a gift in itself.
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Before all the other rules, just remember that
an imperfect note that comes with heartfelt sentiment is better than a perfect
note that was never written.
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** The one exception to this rule is during a job search. If a company emailed you about an interview, email
is the most appropriate way to thank the interviewer. Because hiring decisions
are sometimes made very quickly,
an email thank-you note can be an excellent way to keep your name in front of
the interviewer. However, if email has not already been your main form of
contact with the company, it's best to send a typed thank-you letter.
Traditional, formal companies will appreciate the gesture. Many sources
recommend mailing a paper thank you in addition to emailing a thank you, just
to cover all your bases.
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Quotes for the Month
"Give
and it shall be given unto you…."
~ Luke 6:38
"Being
thankful is also the law of increase. What we give thanks for is automatically
multiplied. If we have only a dime and give thanks for it, it will soon be
increased. If we resent our position and dwell upon what we lack, that is
exactly what we get back." ~ Robert Scheid
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1st Impressions, Inc. offers a variety
of customized
workshops
and private consultations for business owners, employees, and
individuals on professional presence,
business protocol, effective communication, interviewing skills and
dining etiquette. A unique program designed especially for
teens, Skills 4 Success, is
also highly recommended.
1st Impressions, Inc. provides the
polished finishing touches that help you project a lasting impression
of power, poise, confidence and professionalism.
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Etiquette
Advantage" E-Tips,
please complete the information below:
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2003-2005 1st Impressions, Inc. All rights reserved.
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