Dr. Bamster's Blog

Are we really out-of-touch with some of the basics of etiquette like "thank you"???

Recently, I had met with a job seekers as a favor to a friend.  We had a delightful meeting to help this professional get a job search game plan and review how to re-establish the networking momentum.  After a 3-hour meeting, the typical closures were expressed - the individual expressed appreciation and I wished them well and encouraged them to keep in touch.

Now comes the basic etiquette question, "Should this person send a followup thank you?"  The overwhelming answer is YES!  At the very least, an email thank you should be sent, and if you really want to express gratitude, then send a hand written note of thanks.  The expression of gratitude is something basic to all our human relations.  We all have experienced helping people and enjoy and receive so much from this exchange.  Yet, when we receive that genuine expression of gratitude, we really feel connected to one another. 

So, if you are wondering if this person did send a thank you...the answer is NO.  Although I was happy to help, I was disappointed that this person may do the same thing with others as they network....I hope not.

So, when you feel hurried and think the verbal "thanks" is ok...remember it is not!  Send that email or note and genuinely express your thanks to people who give to you of their time and help.  Showing that you are a caring, genuine person is such a good thing! 

Have a great upcoming week as we approach Halloween...and let me hear from you!