Didn’t Get the Job? Say Thanks!
Want to be remembered by the potential client with whom you’ve just had an unsuccessful negotiation? Take the time to send a “Thank You” card. That’s right, a snail-mail Thank You card. Create a one off, nice looking card on your color printer on nice paper, and hand write a note, something like, “Thank you for the opportunity to provide an estimate for your upcoming project. Although we couldn’t work together this time, please keep me in mind for future projects. I am confident that together we would create compelling photographs that show off the best that [insert company name here] has to offer.”
These days, very few photographers take the time to use the US Postal System, instead opting for the more impersonal, faster-to-send, email message. This sort of tasteful, snail-mail contact after a failed negotiation will differentiate you from your competitors and provide another opportunity to show your work to the client. I’ve done this for years and it works; I’ve been contacted for subsequent job estimates and was awarded the work. Good luck!
2 Responses to 'Didn’t Get the Job? Say Thanks!'
Subscribe to comments with RSS or TrackBack to 'Didn’t Get the Job? Say Thanks!'.
Great Idea! I just ended a very difficult bid, that failed and Ifelt very frustrated. I think this will help all parties involved.. maybe the client will also come around to know what a professional has to offer as opposed to “a friend” who can shoot it for next to nothing” Thanks for the suggestion.
This works in any industry- and it works really well. It’s amazing how much people are shocked that you took the time and cared enough to send a card.
I’ve noticed that more people are sending thank you cards so I’ve got an idea for the card that will set you apart even more. Go to a local craft store (like Michael’s Art Supply) and find a book of scrapbooking paper. You can find really cool heavy/thick textured papers that can really easily be made into super cool one of a kind cards. In addition to the cool papers, buy a package of premium off white or white paper- just something you will actually be doing your writing on. To finish it off, mail your card in some premium envelopes.
Think of the card making process as a fun “project” that you and your family or significant other can do some evening. It takes some time, but it is kinda fun. Then just have a box or special place you keep your pre-made cards. Whenever you need to send one out, it just takes a minute or two to grab it- write a nice note- and drop it in the mail. But to them, they’ll be receiving a card that you spent time and work MAKING! Crazy.
I do this for Christmas Cards, Birthday Cards, and anytime I want to do something special. I also go to the dollar store and pick up the 5 packs or 20 packs of cards if they look nice- and then use those for the more often “thank you” notes.
When’s the last time someone hand made you a premium quality card and mailed it to you? Would you be shocked?
(For more photography tips check out my tips blog at http://www.travisjohansentips.blogspot.com – Thanks Blake for your great article. I hope you don’t mind me sharing my tips blog)