As a newly hired Director of a global engineering and IT services company they said I would be based in Sydney and the position would entail some travel, from time to time. With two small kids under the age of five this sounded very attractive……ten minutes’ drive to the office and what’s more, I would be home in time to read stories and bond with the kids.
That all changed within the first week!
I was placed on a bid team for a major IT Outsourcing deal involving over 500 Melbourne based employees. Before I knew it, I was on a plane to Melbourne every Tuesday, returning to Sydney on Friday mornings…. tired. This went on for at least ten months, with the pressure and stress progressively mounting as we neared the ‘transition date’. Even though the cut and thrust of the deal energised and inspired me, I started to feel isolated, guilty for neglecting my kids and my wife….wondering, was it worth it?
Halfway through the bid process I received a handwritten note from my CEO. It was deeply personal; addressed to my wife and I (first names) with specific examples of my contribution to the success of the bid to date and his sincere appreciation of my commitment. In the letter he also addressed the sacrifice my wife had had to make due to my absence. He also referred to a very substantial contribution bonus. That letter still impacts me when I reflect on the words and the effort he put into it…the quantum of money was an acknowledgement… the words which were heartfelt were deeply appreciated. I still have that letter tucked away in my study.
The Australian 21 Nov. ’20: ‘It was a personal letter that helped Scott Morrison clinch this week’s landmark defence deal with Japan and fulfil one of his key goals as Prime minister. A handwritten note sent by Mr Morrison to former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe was critical in reviving the progress of the key defence pact……; the handwritten letter was seen as a powerful symbol by Japan and was a key turning point in the negotiations.
Some years later as a Regional CEO of a Not for Profit I decided to write handwritten thank you notes to our high net supporters. One of them who I had never met was based in Asia. I would typically provide a brief update on the impact of the work of the company in the form of a story. I would also outline a strategic priority and an upcoming project. Despite my shocking handwriting, the stories seemed to resonate with this person…. on several occasions my spirit was lifted by his profound generosity, a couple of weeks following my handwritten note.
As a CEO, senior executive or team leader, never underestimate the impact of the handwritten note as a means of recognising and appreciating members of your team.
As we approach the end of a very disruptive and surreal year what an excellent time to lock yourself away for a while and write a note of appreciation to each of your team members. Make the note personal, sincere and be specific. Be affirmative, appreciative and thankful for their participation and contribution to the team and the organisation.
The personal investment of your time in such a simple, yet meaningful act will be returned in spades…. and all it takes is your time and thought! Try it this month.
Stay safe
Peter
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