6 Reasons for Keeping Greeting Cards Alive

Two of the great American purveyors of greeting cards, Hallmark and Papyrus are both closing stores across the country. Both cite shifting trends in how Americans send wishes to each other. Birthday greetings on Facebook instead of cards, text messages, and emails instead of handwritten letters on stationery.

It may be a sign of the times, but the silver lining remains those who take the time to write a card or send a letter truly set themselves apart. Thoughtful writing on a piece of paper has the power to strengthen a bond, touch someone’s heart, and even land a job offer.

This Valentine’s Day, would you rather receive a card with a heartfelt note from someone you value or an email or text message?

In business, a simple handwritten note has superpowers. It demonstrates your attention to detail, your willingness to do a little extra, your enthusiasm, and your interest in building a relationship. A handwritten note to a client thanking them for their business can go a long way toward creating a strong relationship. They’re also critically important for job interviewees. One study found that only 24% of job seekers send thank you notes after interviews, while 80% of interviewers use them to form opinions about job candidates. A postage stamp, a cute notecard, and 5 minutes of your time can help you stand out from competitors.

Here are six strong reasons why the handwritten card isn’t dead – and why it deserves a place in your personal and professional toolkit.

It makes an impact. A handwritten letter shows the recipient you took the time to put your thoughts on paper and mail it in a world where everyone is in a hurry. An email has value, for example, after a job interview, and a text is an easy form of communication to say hello or let someone know you are running late. But, a handwritten note gets noticed. You will stand out from the crowd.

It’s tangible. There’s something about holding a special message in your hand and reading it again and again. A Valentine’s day text is fine for a friend, but if you have a significant other, pick up the pen and get moving. Professionally, emails are a daily business but for congratulations on a job well done, reach for your professional stationery. A text, social media post, or email inevitably gets buried in a never-ending deluge of digital messages. Still, a letter is more meaningful because it’s something you can hold in your hand. It’s a transfer of energy from the person who wrote it to the person receiving it. 

It’s Part of a Gratitude Practice.

Many people are becoming more conscious of being grateful for the many good things in life. This is a scientifically proven way to increase happiness, but it grows exponentially when you share your gratitude with someone else. If you appreciate something that somebody did for you or the support and love someone has shown you, don’t keep it to yourself. Write it down on a card or stationary and let the person know how much their gesture meant to you. When you show your gratitude with a handwritten note, you’re spreading positivity. Challenge yourself to write a thank you note to someone every week or month.

It’s Easy.

Sending a handwritten note is not rocket science. It does involve preparation – you need a supply of cards and stationery, along with a good pen and some stamps. But once you have the tools of the trade-in place, all you need is a few moments to put your thoughts into words. If the thought of writing a message is daunting, just remember the goal is to simply write a couple of sentences. Choose basic words over fancy ones and write down what you would say if you were speaking face to face.

It’s Part of History.

You may have run across an old letter your mother wrote to your father or an old postcard from your grandparents. I still have cards my mom and dad sent me when I was away at camp as a child. These are treasures to be tucked away, kept, shared with others, and re-read periodically. Texts and emails, while convenient at the moment, are not easily retrieved and enjoyed over time. A handwritten note defies time and digitalization to become part of your personal legacy, and that of the person receiving it.

It’s Part of You.

Some people are hesitant to write notes because they’re embarrassed about their handwriting. It’s okay if you don’t have excellent penmanship; take a little extra time to try to ensure your note is legible, and you’ve done your due diligence. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Think of how it feels to get a hand-addressed envelope in the mail – it’s exciting, regardless of whether the handwriting is in perfect script. Handwritten notes are a reflection of your personality; you’re sharing a piece of yourself. It conveys a personal touch that words on a screen can’t match. I’m sad to see Papyrus close their doors. But, it won’t stop me from writing letters with a favorite pen my son gave me several years ago. The memories you create are priceless.

You may also like The Value of a Handwritten Note. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on Huff Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter. Buy her new book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life.