Living Grand: Let's Put the "P" Back in PERSONAL

Seriously, is sending a thank you note via email proper etiquette? There was a time when beautiful stationery and lovely penmanship was a must and statement of CLASS. With email and text messaging so prevalent; while very efficient when conducting business or needing to get a message to someone quickly. Sending a hand written note in this modern computerized world can be such an effective tool in many circumstances which can often mean the difference in standing out from the crowd, especially given its rarity these days.

I know when I receive a handwritten note I feel it demonstrates more of a personal touch and that the sender has gone to additional time and consideration to send it. Here are a few occasions when you should absolutely put pen to paper:

· Thank those you spoke with during a job interview
· A friend’s family member has passed away -send a heartfelt sympathy note in writing
· You forgot your favorite Aunts birthday – send her a letter
· You receive a gift (i.e., birthday, wedding, baby shower)
· You respond to an invitation
· You are offering congratulations
· You have been treated to a business lunch or dinner
· You have been invited to the home of a client, customer or business associate
· You need to apologize (ladies flowers also go along way when pleading your case)

With Christmas around the corner, parents why not have your children send handwritten thank you notes to all of those who thought enough of them during this joyous season, they can even design their own stationery on the computer.

Remember email is no substitute for a beautifully written note, so let's put the P back in "Personal"!

Eslyn