Consider This

Robert Stevenson’s Thoughts on the Pursuit of Excellence


Two Words You Should Never Forget

February 24, 2019

by Robert Stevenson

I heard it once said that, “Anyone too busy to say, ‘Thank You,’ will soon have fewer chances to say it.” Remembering to say “THANK YOU” can make you money and friends. Forgetting those 2 simple words can disappoint anyone. DISAPPOINT is a very powerful and scary word. You see, disappoint can turn into other “Dis” words, such as...disgruntled, discouraged, disenthralled, disillusioned, disheartened, and dissatisfied.

Several weeks ago, my wife was in a car accident and her car was totaled. Consequently, we had to purchase a new car. I am not going to bore you with all we went through to make our final selection, which is a story for another day. Today, I want to address one POWERFUL point you should never forget. Because, if you do, it could prove to be very costly.

To my amazement, we have not heard one thing from the salesperson who sold us the car. Not a follow-up phone call and especially not even a “Thank You.” Buying a car is NO small purchase and I am sure the salesperson made a handsome commission. The salesperson did ask us to go “On-Line” and write a recommendation and even handed us a sheet of paper explaining how to do that. Evidently, she thought she had done a great job and deserved a high rating.

BUT, to me, the sale wasn’t over yet. The financial paperwork had been done, we had taken possession of our car, it was tagged and titled, and we have now even received the official title from the State of Florida … but the sale isn’t over in my mind. I’m still waiting on a “Thank You,” that I know now, I will never get. I guess you can say, I am disappointed and dissatisfied with the way things turned out.

Will there be any consequences to her NOT sending a “Thank You” note … or even a simple email? “You bet-cha!” She made her commission on that car, but she will never make another commission from us! Will we recommend her to our friends? Nope! Our son, Tyler, is interested in a new model that has just come out made by the same automaker. Will we be calling our past salesperson at the dealership? Nope! That salesperson could have a “lay-up” sale from him, but it won’t happen.

I personally don’t think you can say “Thank You” too often. When a waiter brings me my food, refills my glass, takes my dishes away … I say, “Thank You.” You could be thinking, “Rob, that is their job, they are required to do that.” You’re right. But, those little “Thank Yous” can cause you to get your food faster and receive better service. An associate stays late to help you out … say “Thank You.” No matter how small the gesture is, say “Thank You.”

Follow this simple rule: Say “Thank You” to everyone you meet for everything they do for you. Being grateful OPEN DOORS. Being ungrateful CLOSES them. A simple “Thank You” has magic. It warms the heart and can create a connection between people. The smallest “Thanks” is ALWAYS worth more than the effort required to say it. These two simple words can take you far in life. Never underestimate the POWER of saying, “Thank You!”



"Your only true security in life
is your ability to perform."

About the Author

Robert Stevenson is an expert at building a high-performance business culture, improving efficiency, and accelerating growth. He is one of the most widely sought-after speakers in the world today, as well as a best-selling author. He has owned five companies, sold internationally in over 20 countries. Robert has spoken to over 2,500 companies throughout the world and his research in the area of corporate and entrepreneurial success is extensive. Over 2 million people have benefitted from his powerful, practical, and thought-provoking programs. He is a true master at blending facts, inspiration, conviction, and humor into all his programs.

Companies like FedEx, Prudential, Lockheed Martin, Chevron, American Express, and Berkshire Hathaway continue to rely on him for a fresh, unique perspective on businesses’ most crucial issues. To learn more about Robert and what he can do for your team visit his website at www.RobertStevenson.org.

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