I just got this great mailer and wanted to share it for several reason. First, I recommend that all of my clients send out letters to their sphere of influence to let them know when something new is happening. It’s appropriate to do this when you’re  in any transition: starting a new phase of a business, between opportunities or re-creating yourself. First class mail has taken on new significance in this age of virtual marketing. I loved getting a hand-written note from a long-time friend and colleague.

When I was early in my egg-decorating career, Jack presented me the opportunity to have a one-woman show at the newly opened Brookfield Craft Center in South Norwalk. It put me on the map with a gala event and an article in the New York Times. I taught many classes at this renowned institution and shared conversation-filled dinners with Jack and Judith Russel in addition to other visiting craftsmen–a coveted invitation offered to their weekend faculty members.

So when I received this “warm letter” from Jack, it affirmed my belief in this practice. Jack was letting his sphere know what he was going on and what he was up to. I immediately picked up the phone to respond.

Jack had been with Brookfield Craft Center for 28 years. Now, at 61, he has the opportunity to make an enormous contribution elsewhere. I told him I, too, would keep my eyes and ears open for opportunities.

That’s the impact of reaching out and letting people know what’s going on. Action is the magic word.