You work in sales. You want to raise your visibility and get yourself noticed. Stand out from the competition. Are you missing this obvious advantage?
Most people today have a love affair with social media. If not, then they are tied to e-mail. Because of it's ease and low cost, these channels have pulled people away from surface mail. Hardly anyone sends, notes, cards and letters. I've written about this before, but now it's time to focus on your signature.
1. Signing your name in blue.
Most people sign letters or make notes using black ink. Sometimes forms require it. When writing letters, signing your name in blue ink stands out. You don't need to fit your signature into the space between sincerely and your typed Name. You can write bigger if you like.
Why: Your signature captures attention at the bottom of the page. It says something about you. Make a statement!
2. Choosing another color.
Now you are taking another creative step. How about using a color other than the conventional black or blue? One of the managers I reported to had a tradition of signing in purple. In a world where people want to stand out and get noticed, he became known as the guy who used a purple pen.
Why: You are taking a small step that helps you stand out from the crowd.
3. The handwritten note at the top of the letter.
Form letters can be really automated. Mail merge can populate and personalize the letter. A facsimile of your signature can be printed on the letter. Before that technology was developed, people even used rubber stamps! I write a personal note up at the top of the letter (Dear ___). It's a greeting or other personal note.
Why: A handwritten note reinforces the letter was signed by a real person. It communicates "we have a relationship."
4. Multiple signatures on a greeting card.
You've seen this in the office when birthday cards are sent around. Everyone in the office is asked to sign it. Suppose you applied the same logic for client birthday cards and holiday cards! You have a team of several people. Each one signs the card, maybe adding a personal note.
Why: The recipient gets the point. "A team looks after me." These people, not just one person, remembered my birthday!"
