Since February, we have been sharing the importance of having a retention program in place, which is especially important now that we’re experiencing a global crisis. This global crisis caused major changes in our business and lives. You could feel that the world was going to need more kindness & compassion. As we moved in to stay-at-home times, it became clear that there would be no in-person comfort to offer each other. We were going to need to put more effort and thought into showing people that we’re there for them. It just made sense that each of us could do our part to look after one another and find creative ways to do so.
We’re now 2-3 months into this experience, and this relationship-building stuff has never been more critical. But this week, we were asked a very specific question that took us even more in-depth. It’s the first time someone asked us for help related to what we knew many were likely to experience. How do you help comfort someone who is experiencing the loss of a business or is greatly impacted by this whole global pandemic?
It’s a great question, and we want to share with you where we landed with our response so that perhaps many others can give a virtual shoulder for the people in their network experiencing loss.
3 Ways to Approach a Message of Comfort
When it comes to gifting, certain attributes, which we’ll get to in a minute, create meaning and ensure long-lasting bonds are created between the giver and the recipient. Gifting can be as simple as a meaningful message in a card. Using any of these attributes increases the stickiness of your presence and creates an emotional tie.
Now, let’s go back to your goal. You’ve identified that there is someone in your circle whose business has been negatively impacted by this pandemic. In some cases, he or she is facing the closure of their business. Your goal is to offer comfort and maybe even provide a little pick me up, but in the end, you want this person in your circle to know you’re there.
The 3 attributes you might consider leveraging for this message/gift are:
1 – Shared Experience
2 – Future Milestone
3 – Transition
Let’s take a look at how each of them might work.
1.) Shared Experiences
When it comes to using this attribute in your relationship-building efforts, you have to reference a shared positive experience. You can also use an experience that focuses on a challenge that you worked through together, but it depends on your goal and recipient. Meaning, focus on a shared experience that lifts her up and highlights her strength as a leader.
For this occasion of outreach, let’s find a positive experience you shared together. What you want to look for is a time when you saw them act boldly in their business or reference an event of his/hers that you participated in or even a business presentation that went well. You’re basically going to look for a shining moment in their business when you supported them or experienced their efforts.
With this attribute, you’re going to make sure that your message references that time and shares how proud you are to have experienced that with him/her.
Example:
Dear <Name>,
I just wanted to reach out and let you know that I’m thinking of you during this tough time. I know that what you’re going through has not been easy, and I want you to know I’m here for you. I hope that you’ll find comfort in all the good you served. I am so glad to have experienced your classes. You sure had us fired up. You did amazing work, and so many are proud to have connected with you.
I know that wherever you next land, you will go on to do more incredible things.
Take care, and please reach out if I can help.
<Signature>
2.) Future Milestones
Milestones are another attribute that would work well for this gift. Primarily focus on the future state for this person. No one expects to be on this type of journey, and it’s a challenging one, so providing a future goal state for them to hold on to is a huge help.
What you want to do with this message is to help them focus on the eventual good that will come when this door closes, and the next one will open. It’s hard to see it that way now, but you can work that message in a very soft way that will help them through this.
Example:
Dear <Name>,
I want you to know that I’m thinking of you, and while I know this journey has been difficult, please know that I’m here to help you land as softly as possible.
Better days are waiting for you, and when this is all over, and you’re in the place that you’re next meant to be, I know you’ll be living your best life again! You have so much greatness ahead of you.
Warmly,
<Signature>
Sometimes referencing a quote can help. Give her something motivating. One that might fit this message:
For example, “Let go of the life we have planned in order to accept the life we have waiting for us.” – Joseph Campbell
3.) Transition
Transitions are also powerful attributes to work into your gifting. With this scenario, the person is transitioning through a rough experience or a rough time. Focus on acknowledging their strength, perseverance, and direct them toward the other side of this.
Example:
Dear <Name>,
I see you, and I want you to know I’m here for you. I know this isn’t an easy time and that the transition ahead can seem overwhelming. YOU are strong, and I have been so impressed with how you’ve been handling this. You are a role model for how to manage through rough times. Please know that you can lean on me when you need to. I’m happy to help find humor, share drinks, and a few rants or simply listen.
You got this.
Take care,
<Signature>
Just Show Up in Support
In the end, for this occasion, you have to select the option that feels right coming from you. It’s a very personal message that you’re sending. No matter which route you choose, the opportunity before you is to make a difference for others. When you come from a place of giving, everything else falls in line.
If you’re having trouble with the messaging, we’re always happy to help! Feel free to schedule a conversation by emailing: info@TheExpressory.com