I did a workshop last month because a friend was coordinating it. It was one of those county library things, and she finagled $250 for me. I'd taken some of the POV books and ended up giving them away because I didn't want to carry them home (and I bought 300 copies when they were remaindered, so I have many). Anyway, here I gave all these attendees books that would have cost them $20, and ran out before one guy got one, so I mailed him one. The book cost me $3, the mailing $5. I received, clearly, very little for having done so, but I am a very nice person. :)
NOT ONE THANKS. Nothing. They all had my email, and didn't bother. Weird. The husband said, "Well, it's because you gave it to them free. Some people don't appreciate anything they don't pay for."
Okay, I am the least diva person you'll find (really- ask Theresa). I don't expect a lot. But I was sort of appalled that no one in this big group of writers thought to send me a thank-you email for a FREE BOOK.
It costs nothing to send a "thank you" email. You'll get points in heaven, but even beyond that, really-- think ahead. Let's say I give you a free book... or free advice... or a free critique... and never hear from you. Then you sell a book and want a blurb. Or you want a recommendation to graduate school. Or you want me to do a blog post for you. If I don't associate your name with something pleasant like a thankyou note, how likely do you think a letter of rec is???
This was brought to mind by someone who did send a note, and I'm going to blurt out her triumph as soon as I have some more info. But just in case you're wondering... email LEONA for more info. :)
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