When you have been in business for a while, it is easy to become complacent. You rely on those repeat customers and regular clients. You take for granted that the great suppliers you have established ties with will always be reliable. You get used to the support of colleagues in your business networks.

When you stop to think about those stakeholders, I am sure you are fully aware of how important they all are to the success of your business. But when was the last time you thanked them?

The end of the year is an opportunity to say ‘thanks’ to the people who support your business, both directly and indirectly. Wherever possible, this needs to have a personal touch, rather than generic communication. Handwritten notes or cards are a great way to convey your appreciation, and allows you to add specific words of thanks if appropriate.

Although it shouldn’t be used as a sales pitch, there is also nothing wrong with including a (useful) branded item or using a thank you card with your logo on it. Although a personal touch is warranted, it is still a professional relationship that you are taking care of, not a heartfelt letter to a best friend!

But here is a key consideration: any expressions of gratitude or thanks should be done without an expectation of anything in return. Although your thank you note will be from Mary Jones of XYZ Company, do it without expecting that you will generate more sales or more loyalty. Do it purely because you are grateful for what this person has done in the past, not for what you hope they will do in the future.

Ralph Marston says this beautifully: “Make it a habit to tell people thank you. To express your appreciation, sincerely and without the expectation of anything in return. Truly appreciate those around you, and you'll soon find many others around you. Truly appreciate life, and you'll find that you have more of it.”

Michelle Grice writes a weekly column for business women in The Western Weekender