In networking, express your gratitude

Dear Grandma,

Thank you for the sweater you gave me for my birthday. It looks really swell, and I can't wait to wear it out sledding. I'll have Mom take a picture and send it to you so you can see how much I like it.

Love, Timmy

It isn't a bad little note. In fact, we should be sending these missives all the time. A Gratitude Note, on the other hand, goes one step further. You would send one of these notes to someone who has had a profound impact on your life. This is your opportunity to express your sincere gratitude for everything they have done for you and to let them know exactly how important the relationship with them has been to you.

The recipient saves a Gratitude Note. Heck, they might even frame it.

Try it sometime. You will probably notice a couple of benefits.The first will be for the recipient. We all need to feel appreciated at times. Your simple note can truly make someone's day, week or even month. I don't know of anyone who is so confident in themselves that they wouldn't appreciate some recognition of the value they provide.

The second benefit will be for yourself. By expressing your appreciation for this one thing in your life, you will begin to feel grateful for all of the good things in your life. You'll be amazed at how truly fortunate you are, and you will be much less likely to take things and people for granted.

So, take a few minutes to acknowledge one of the many people who have made your life better in some way. You'll feel good. They'll feel good. It will also go a long way toward building the strongest of connections in your network.

Greg Peters, founder of The Reluctant Networker LLC, writes, speaks and coaches about good networking practice. For more tips that can help your connections count, go to www.thereluctantnetworker.com.