Lucinda

Mine and other blogs have been praising technology and social media.  You Tube, Facebook, and Twitter are critical marketing tools in today’s age.  But let’s not forget the good old handwritten letter.  Remember the days when you received a penned letter from a relative or close friend?  There was something special about opening that letter.  Studies suggest that people still desire and embrace that personal touch.  In fact many non profits rely on the personal connection of the handwritten letter as the first building block in establishing a strong relationship with a donor.  A prominent blog www.theagitator.net seconds this concept.  The author notes that “communications in digital form drives attention deficit and diminishing returns.”

My first thoughts on handwritten or not?

I visualize the wastebasket brimming with discarded start overs calling into question what this handwritten letter has on my carbon footprint.  Does this mean more work? If I handwrite a letter do I have to plant a tree now?

Of course, a handwritten letter demands attention to my penmanship, whereas the delete key, the new digit on my right hand  rearranges my scribbles and thoughts formulating eloquent communications.  I like that very much.

Let’s not leave out time and money.  I’ll need an envelope, the 42 cents and who knows how long it will be before my letter arrives to its destination.  On the other hand (get it)…other hand…the send  button is free and delivery is immediate.

The case for digital seems compelling…but here’s what I really think.  A hand written ask letter is more likely to be effective when it’s written by someone the writer knows personally.  It lends itself to a level of intimacy that digital communication doesn’t capture.  The reader connects emotionally, understanding the time taken, efforts involved, and the writers passion for the cause.

After all, the letter is permanent, leaving a lasting impression and your request will be given more consideration.  Whatever your choice,  handwritten or not , my recent post “Ask and You Shall Receive”- 5tips for writing an ASK Letter will surely help you either way.