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May 2009
Index of all
messages
from the Association President
Communication makes a difference
By Barb Cline, AAR President
Communication is one of the most important skills anyone can have, in business and in life.
Webster’s Dictionary defines communication as an act of transmitting information; a process by which information is exchanged between individuals; a technique for expressing ideas effectively. It sounds easy, doesn’t it? What’s so hard about good communication?
The answer to that question lies in practicing effective communication with those you know. It is the key that can open the door to good client relationships and help you make a difference in the lives of others.
Make a big impression
One powerful method of communication is still the written word. Why not write a letter of congratulations to someone you know? Graduations are coming up soon and I imagine that someone you know will somehow be involved in this rite of passage. You may think that a parent doesn’t need to be congratulated when a son or daughter graduates – after all, it’s not the parent who’s receiving the diploma – but believe me when I tell you that the milestones of our children are our milestones as well. A note of congratulations to someone in your sphere of influence involved in a graduation would be a great way to communicate with them. And that’s only one event that might warrant such a note. You might send one to someone you know for a new baby, a wedding, a new job, a promotion or success at work, to name only a few. Think about your friends and make it a point to write two or three notes this week.
In addition to being a nice thing to do, writing a congratulatory note is also an opportunity to get your name in front of someone who has had a life-changing moment. And if that new situation requires different housing, won’t it be nice to have your name fresh in their minds?
Choosing the right words for a congratulatory note can increase the impact of the message. Here are some suggestions for writing a sincere congratulatory note:
Write soon after hearing the news.
Use the word “congratulations” early.
Mention the occasion for congratulations in the first sentence or two.
Tell the person how happy, proud, or impressed you are.
If possible, mention something about the person’s abilities and achievements.
Express your best wishes for the person and for continued success.
Don’t tell the recipient he is lucky since that implies chance rather than achievement.
I hope you will take the time to write a letter of congratulations to someone you know. By doing so, you could make a difference in their lives – and possibly your own in the process. Good luck!
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