All that is old is new again – handwritten cards are becoming more popular!

We see it all the time – I mean, who thought leg warmers would ever be back, yet, here they are.

Well the same can be said about marketing. While we all focus on digital and how to get found online by our potential audience, snail mail is making a comeback. Do you incorporate handwritten cards and notes into your marketing?

Handwritten cards and notes are all the rage!

When was the last time you received an actual, handwritten note from someone? Anyone? Still thinking? That’s exactly the thinking behind this method of follow-up.

From the envelope to the actual card, no matter your penmanship, prospects, existing clients, and referral partners will appreciate the time you took to think about something to write. It makes you real. It makes you human.

What can handwritten cards do to develop your business relationships?

  • Mail gets opened and read
  • It sends a meaningful, thoughtful and pertinent message
  • Handwritten notes give an impression that’s positive
  • They are reflective of the image of the type of company you have
  • It’s reflective of the type of service they’re likely to get
  • Makes the recipient feel special or important
  • It’s fun!

When do you send personal, handwritten cards?

  • To set yourself apart from the competition
  • When you want to schedule an appointment
  • Confirming an appointment
  • Thanking someone for a referral
  • Acknowledging a special occasion
  • Showing your appreciation for a favour

Add value and you add to the impact, so be creative. Combine the message with something that relates to the person or their business – an article, or something of personal interest.

A note that’s personal proves you were listening, proves you care about the prospect personally. It has a lasting impact to ensure that the next attempt at contact puts you at the top of the list.

Here are some tips:

  • Hand address the envelope
  • Make sure the note fits the occasion
  • Be certain the personality of the person and the card match
  • Don’t overdo it, or you lose the impact
  • Don’t make the message too mushy – stick to “ways you can help”

Anyone else going to be on the hunt for some fun cards and integrate this into their marketing practices? If you’ve got a quirky sense of humour, check out this site for some extremely funny cards from a vendor in the UK. Some are probably better suited to family and friends, but good for a laugh, none-the-less.

I already send cards, but this has given me some inspiration on how to make my handwritten cards practice even better.

For other ideas we’ve discussed in past posts, check out our blog!