Let’s face it. Most businesses think handwritten cards are just for the obvious stuff — thanking customers, welcoming new clients, or sending holiday greetings.
But here’s the counterintuitive truth: the most POWERFUL uses of handwritten communication have nothing to do with saying “thanks.”
I’ve had a lightbulb moment watching our clients use handwritten cards in ways I never expected.
Here are some mind-blowing applications that might make you rethink everything about when a handwritten card could be your secret weapon.
Securing Strategic Partnerships When Digital Outreach Fails
Here’s a scenario you might be familiar with:
We’re in the process of helping one of our business clients reach out to strategic complementary businesses in their space.
Previously they were doing outbound cold calls, however, we suggested that they lead with a handwritten card, then an email, and lastly a phone call.
By this point the contact might be “warmed up” to the idea plus this utilizes various methods for touch points.
(Note: This is the same method I use for Ghosthandwriter.com so I wouldn’t advise you to try something I’m not trying myself.)
Land Acquisition (Yes, Really)
This one surprised even me. We’ve had clients in completely different industries use handwritten cards to solve the EXACT SAME problem: acquiring access to privately-owned land.
Case Study: Hunting Land Access
A hunting outfitter was previously using handwritten cards by paying college kids to actual hand write them.
They had long used this method and found lots of success.
But as with all college kids, they graduate and move on to bigger and better things.
Thus, they contacted us.
For about a comparable cost, we’re able to church out thousands of letter for them but at a much SWIFTER speed and higher levels of quality control.
Case Study: Solar Installation Opportunities
Similarly, a renewable energy developer needed to lease rural land parcels for solar installations. Their printed letters were met with skepticism and little response.
Within a couple weeks of launching their first campaign with us, they have noticeably seen a “solid response” as their Co-Founders noted.
They’ve even been receiving compliments on the letters 🙂
Navigating Sensitive Business Situations
I’ve been thinking about business scenarios that require a particular level of sensitivity where digital communications might actually make things worse:
Addressing Business Relationship Challenges
Imagine this scenario: a consulting project has hit a rough patch with a key client.
Instead of another sterile email, what if the CEO sent a handwritten note acknowledging the challenges? ‘The same words that might seem harsh or corporate in an email would likely come across as authentic and caring in handwritten form.
Approaching Competitors for Potential Acquisition
Consider how different the initial contact might feel when approaching competitors about potential acquisition. A thoughtful handwritten note could frame the discussion as an opportunity rather than a threat from the very beginning.
The psychology here makes perfect sense. Handwriting naturally disarms people. It’s a physical reminder that there’s a human on the other side of the business relationship.
Breaking Through to IMPOSSIBLE-TO-REACH Decision Makers
Here’s where things could get really interesting.
Think about using handwritten cards specifically to reach C-suite executives who are otherwise completely unreachable:
Potential Application: Government Contracting
Imagine you’re trying to secure meetings with a key government decision-maker and getting nowhere through official channels.
What if you sent a thoughtful handwritten note congratulating the official on a recent department achievement (mentioned in a public newsletter)? It’s the kind of personal touch that might cut through the bureaucratic barriers.
Potential Application: Retail Buyer Outreach
Picture a product manufacturer struggling to get their innovative product in front of national retail buyers. What if, instead of another email pitch, they sent handwritten cards with small product samples attached?
I have a theory about why this approach would work. Gatekeepers filter digital communications, but handwritten envelopes typically make it directly to the recipient’s desk. It’s a pattern disruption in their daily flood of communications.
Other Unexpected Uses That Could Actually WORK
Beyond these examples, here are some other potential applications where handwritten cards might deliver surprising results:
- Resolving customer service escalations that have reached an impasse
- Re-engaging dormant accounts that have stopped responding to emails and calls
- Building relationships with industry influencers when cold outreach has failed
- Scheduling meetings at trade shows with specifically targeted attendees
- Inviting participation in research studies where representative samples are crucial
Why This Works When Everything Else Fails
I’ve thought about this a lot, and here’s what I’ve figured out:
- Pattern disruption — In a world of sameness, handwriting immediately stands out
- Perceived effort — We instinctively recognize when someone has invested time
- Tangibility — Physical mail creates a presence that digital can’t match
- Psychological reciprocity — We feel subtly obligated to respond to genuine effort
Handwritten communication hits all these points in ways digital never can.
Looking at YOUR Business
Take a moment and think:
- Where are you facing digital communication fatigue or poor response rates?
- What high-stakes opportunities would justify the additional time investment?
- Which sensitive situations might be better navigated with handwritten communication?
Remember that handwritten cards work precisely BECAUSE they’re not used for everything. Their effectiveness comes from being the unexpected exception to the digital rule.
I’m curious – have you used handwritten notes in unconventional business situations?
Hit me up and let me know! And if you’re interested in seeing how a handwritten campaign can help your business then book a call.