Just a couple quick thoughts to share…
I can’t count the number of times I’ve extended myself to help someone out, both strangers and those I know, and never once received a thank you.
Some would say, when you give, you should be giving without any expectations in return. And I wholeheartedly agree with that on one level.
At the same time, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with expecting a simple thank-you. Everyone wants a little acknowledgement, even if they try to fool themselves into thinking they don’t.
It’s part of “being in this together” and building relationships. It’s about giving back to those who have given to you. And it’s just good breeding.
So are you a giver or a taker?
Do you sign up for things just to mine other people’s stuff?
Do you join forums and then lurk around… making active, contributing members feel uncomfortable, like there is a stranger in their midst who is eavesdropping on their conversations and whose intentions are unknown… who is just taking and benefitting from their input without contributing anything in return?
Do you use people to get what you want, but don’t consider what those who have helped you might need or appreciate in return?
When someone goes out of their way to help you when they don’t have to, do you acknowledge that? Do you remember to say “thank you?”
Those two simple little words go a long way.
And this extends to your client relationships as well… Don’t ever take their business for granted. One small little gesture I make that clients of mine have told me means so much to them is that when I receive their payment (even if I’m the one processing it to pay myself), I alway, ALWAYS, email them and tell them ”thank you.” Every single time.
Some might think after the first few times you wouldn’t need to bother. But it’s the small things and paying attention to seemingly insignificant details that often make the most meaningful, memorable impact.
So don’t be a user. Don’t be a taker. Give back as good as you get. Remember to say thank you to your clients for their business (and payments) and to all the others along your journey who stop to help you out in any way. Each and every time.
Thanks for commenting. Yeah, the virtual assistant term is really completely idiotic to...
One Comment
This is a great article. It is good to be reminded to not take your clients for granted. I really like the part about emailing your clients a “thank you” after payment. I always type a little note in my paypal invoice saying “thank you for your continued business” or something personal for the week if it applies. Your idea of an extra little thank you could really make my clients feel appreciated.