Despite our increasingly “wired world”, a handwritten thank you note is still the best way to say “thank you”, according to Peggy Post, the country’s foremost etiquette expert. Not only is she the great-granddaughter-in-law of Emily Post, she is also an author and director of The Emily Post Institute. 

“Communicating personally via a hand-written thank you note can help to build business relationships,” explains Barbara K. Mednick, president of BKM Consulting, Inc. (www.bkmconsulting.com) a St. Paul, Minn. marketing communications and PR consultancy. “They may seem old-fashioned, but these days’ hand-written notes are different and they really make an impact,” says Mednick, who provides marketing communications consulting, writing and training services to help organizations and individuals market themselves effectively to achieve their goals.  

“It’s amazing how great it feels to open up a personalized handwritten note from a colleague, customer or friend who has taken the time to write and send a note to you,” says Mednick, who is also an artist and owner of Barbara’s Brushworks, which features one-of-a-kind, hand-painted card, glass and fabric.  

Her colorful and original hand-painted designs are inspired by nature, with flowers, fruits, leaves, pine cones and butterflies her favorite subjects.  Each design is skillfully created with a brush and Barbara’s imagination — not a stencil or a stamp.  A variety of designs can be viewed at www.bbrushworks.biz.  

“As the business world continues to get more competitive, you have to find innovative ways to stand out from the crowd. Taking the time to write a sincere thank you note is always appreciated,” says Mednick.  

Barbara K. Mednick, president of BKM Consulting, Inc. (www.bkmconsulting.com) provides strategic marketing communications and public relations consulting and planning, copywriting, and writing/communications training services to a wide variety of clients. You can visit Barbara’s blog at http://www.bkminsights.blogspot.com.