Blast From the Past: How Old School Job Values Can Advance Your Career

Electronics rule our work interactions these days, from inter-office texts to emails from your boss to Twitter direct messages from clients or customers, so much so that we hardly speak to each other anymore.

There are times, however, when values and ethics from earlier years can help you advance your career. Back when dinosaurs roamed the Earth and before people had computers and Blackberrys, business was based on face-to-face interactions. People had to network, shake hands, and even make phone calls to get the job done. It was just considered good business.

While you should embrace today's new technologies and the quickness they afford, making personal contact (like people did back in the day) can really help you stand out and be remembered. Here are 5 tried-and-true tips that can give you that extra something to help advance your career.

#1: Pick Up the Phone
Are you looking for a job? Trying to get in touch with old business contacts? Working to drum up new business? Step away from the keyboard and pick up your phone. I know it's easy to draft one inquiry email that you can send to hiring managers, old clients, or former co-workers, but emails are a dime a dozen and are easily deleted. A phone call can help you make a personal connection that just isn't possible through a computer. Plus, in a world driven by technology, making a phone can speak to your motivation, perseverance, and social skills.

#2: Send a Hand-Written Thank You Note
These days we fire off emails faster than you can blink an eye. But the next time you're tempted to shoot a "thank you" email to a colleague, client or vendor, stop yourself. Compose and hand-written thank you note instead and personalize it: mention the specific project you worked on, what you appreciated about his or her contribution, and that you'll be in touch soon. Include a business card for that extra bit of networking. In a sea of email messages, I guarantee you that your note will help you be remembered for future projects.

#3: Ask a Question in Person
Admit it: there have been times that you've emailed a co-worker one or two cubicles away because you were too lazy to walk over and speak to them. Don't worry, we've all done it. But next time you have a question, make the effort to talk with your co-worker in person. You may actually save time by getting an answer right away, rather than waiting for them to open their email, read it, and respond. You'll also get a chance to catch up on a personal level, something that is becoming a rare commodity.

#4: Organize a Face-to-Face Meeting or Networking Session
Conference calls, virtual meet ups, webinars, and Twitter chats are the kings of networking today. And while it's great when your company or business is spread out across the country, or you want to connect with someone who lives on the opposite coast, sometimes you still need a good old face-to-face meeting.

The next time you have need to have a company-wide discussion, try to do it in person. It will help reinforce the working relationships between you and your colleagues, and may even provide a chance to discuss unresolved issues or upcoming projects. If you're traveling for business and have clients or co-workers in that city who you've connected with virtually, make a point to meet them for lunch, coffee, or drinks.

#5: Send Clients Holiday Gifts
The end of the year is approaching and the holiday season is upon us. This is a great time to show appreciation for your clients, vendors, and customers, and remind them of how much you value your business relationship. If your company can afford it, a small gift for their office can speak volumes. (Not sure what to get? Something in the chocolate or cookie family is always appreciated.) If you can't swing it, a holiday or New Year greeting card is a less expensive way to show your gratitude and strengthen your relationship for the start of 2011.