When it comes to the annual sending of Holiday Cards I’ve often wondered why the tradition that started in the 1800s has continued to this day. With all of the phone calls, emails, texts, tweets, Facebook posts and social networking opportunities galore, you would think the sending of greeting cards would fast become a lost art. Instead, the personal connection holiday cards bring are more important than ever and here are several reasons why.
1) Personal Relationships. You need to put a little extra effort into maintaining and growing your personal relationships. True, you may have followed up on your last meeting with a phone call but that has become expected. You need to work at strengthening relationships and holiday cards do just that. By remembering someone with a thoughtful holiday greeting you are letting them know that they are special to you. Taking that bit of extra time to address and mail them a card lets them know they matter to you and to your business.
2) Loyalty. It takes effort to build loyalty and even more to maintain it. Closing that first sale means a lot but you want that customer to keep coming back to you. You don’t want them looking around, you just want them to trust that you are providing them with the very best in price, quality, service and product or service. To insure that they think of you and only you, you must earn their trust and maintain their loyalty. Sending them thoughtful holiday cards will let them know that they are special to you. Even better, remember them with personal birthday cards, anniversary cards and thank you cards throughout the year to keep your name in front of them and retain their loyalty.
3) Hard copy. It has been proven that people actually ignore more than half of the emails they receive daily. Unless they are looking for an email from you or you are offering something free or at a great discount that they actually want and need, emails are glanced at and deleted. Custom printed holiday cards that come through the mail and are addressed to the receiver are always opened and enjoyed. During the holidays these cards are often displayed for all to see. What better way to get your name in front of those that matter.
4) Time Well Spent. We’ve all used the excuse that I just don’t have time to select, address and send holiday cards. I’ve often thought that myself. However, this once a year ritual is well worth the effort if you want to stay connected with friends, family, customer and business associates. Take a moment now to go ahead and select a design with a thoughtful custom imprinted verse and your very own personalization. Round up your mailing list and use this opportunity to update your mailing addresses. You can even enjoy remembering each addressee as you stuff their envelope with your unexpected surprise card. With just a little effort and time spent you will be rewarded with lasting partnerships and strengthen new connections.
5) Stay in Touch. Don’t just say “I’ll be in touch”, do it! By sending holiday cards you are being proactive and investing in your future. Professionally printed holiday cards or Christmas cards send a stylish and tasteful message that shows you cared enough to take the time to remember them. Christmas Photo Cards are especially cherished by friends and family who may not have seen you or your family in a while. Customers will feel special, business associates will appreciate the gesture and friends and family will remember you fondly.
There really are no excuses for not sending holiday cards this year. Considering how tough it is to grow and maintain business, any advantage you can leverage is called for. Personalized holiday cards are a simple way to express thoughtfulness and appreciation to those you value in your business and personal life.
