Why Handwritten Notes are Brilliant for Business
Not just during Covid, but all throughout your business, a handwritten note that is sincere and personal is a beautiful part of the customer experience.
The other day, I received a handwritten note in the mail. Not an invitation (but that gives me an idea - will come back to that at the end), not a life update letter, not a birthday card, not a clipping of an article (but I like those, too). A real, handwritten, to only me, sincere, beautiful note. Even seeing the envelope in my pile of mail made me happy - and that was before I opened it.
Actually, it was so pretty, and the handwriting so lovely, that I just put it on the counter where I could see it all afternoon. Sitting outside with a glass of wine, I opened it at the end of the day. You're giving the receiver the gift of appreciation, but you are also giving them a moment of quiet.
Seriously, is that what it has come to? A handwritten note is that much of an occasion?
According to US Post Office, 70% of mail recipients say that a handwritten letter would mean more than a tweet, a text, or a social media message.
And the writer can get as much joy as the receiver.
Just putting pen to paper.
Clearing off your desk and turning it into a writing desk for just an afternoon.
Being quiet and thinking about why you appreciate each client - what matters to you about that particular person.
Studies show that expressing gratitude to others increases health and happiness.
And it really doesn't take much time. Here are a couple of guidelines that I find helpful.
Use a pen and make it personal. I think I read an Emily Post something that says it needs to be a pen. But you know what? If you only use pencils and that is your thing, find one in a signature color and do it!
Think about what is special about them and thank them for that. Maybe it’s just a reminder that you appreciate them as a client. Maybe it’s a, “thinking of you” message. Maybe it’s, “you were on my mind - can’t wait to see you again!”
Use your language. Don't say, "I want to show my gratitude for you," if your language is more like, "You ROCK!"
Put. It. In. The. Mail. Seriously, order some stamps (as on-brand as you can, please) and have them at the ready. Keep a sheet of them with your notecards and stationary. At the end of this post are several links to beautiful stamps. (I used to carry written and sealed notes in my purse or my car for weeks before I made it to the post office or a mailbox. Pathetic.)
Years ago I saw a quote by Dawn Bryan of the consumer and lifestyle website, The Qualipedia, that I think helps with a mindset shift:
“Think of writing letters and notes as opportunities, not obligations. ”
That helped me so much! It is an opportunity. When you are writing to your customers, it is an opportunity to remind them that you are still there. That you appreciate them. A thank-you note should never be promotional, but that doesn't mean it can't be a part of your marketing strategy.
As a small business owner, you get to do things that are often cumbersome for bigger companies. Take advantage of that!
When you take the time to write someone a note, you are creating an experience. And hopefully, an on-brand experience. (be particular about the stationary!) You know I always say one of the first questions you always ask is, how do you want them to feel? Touched. Special. Appreciated. Surprised. Ask yourself that question. Answer it. Now, write something that makes them feel that.
And it really is simple. But, so easy to find an excuse!
So, grab a glass of wine or a cup of tea - find a pen and some cards, sit in a relaxing spot, and think about your clients. And let them know that’s what you are doing - with a handwritten note.
Oh, that idea I had at the beginning? I’m going to put it on Instagram, so check it out in the next few days. It has to do with invitations during Covid.
Beautiful Stamps
tinyprints from Shutterfly has some cute ones
these are Oscar de la Renta on Etsy, by EdelweissPost
(are these even real? they are soooo beautiful)
of course, the good ol’ Post Office has a big selection, but if you are loyal to Amazon, you can get most of the same ones here.
