The Untapped Power of a Handwritten Card
Jun 19, 2025
I opened my mailbox the other day and found something rare.
Not a bill. Not an ad. Not a generic mass mailing.
It was a handwritten card from a young leader I had lunch with. He paid for the meal. He asked thoughtful questions. And then, he sent a thank-you card.
You want to know what happened next?
I immediately thought, “I’m going to do whatever I can to help this guy succeed.”
Why? Because his handwritten card stood out.
It cut through the noise. It communicated intentionality, gratitude, and character.
And that little card, written in ink, not typed in a text—left a lasting impression.
Why Handwritten Cards Still Matter (More Than Ever)
In a world dominated by fast, digital communication, handwritten cards have almost disappeared from leadership and business culture.
But that’s exactly why they matter.
Think about it:
- How many emails do you get a day?
- How many Slack messages, pings, DMs, and notifications do you ignore?
- How many handwritten notes did you get this week?
Chances are, that last number is close to zero. And yet, it’s those rare, physical notes that linger. They’re kept. Reread. Remembered.
Digital is convenient. But handwritten is unforgettable.
The Leadership Lesson in the Mailbox
That card from the young leader reminded me of something I deeply believe:
If you want to be remembered, write the card. If you want to be forgotten, don’t.
In leadership, communication is currency. But most leaders are only spending their communication capital through digital transactions, quick texts, templated emails, or AI-generated follow-ups.
There’s nothing wrong with those tools. But they’re just noise if they’re not paired with something more human.
A handwritten card is different.
It says:
- I paused.
- I reflected.
- I valued our moment enough to physically write you a message.
That level of care communicates something no subject line ever could.
The Card That Led to a Booking
One of my favorite post-speaking rituals is sending handwritten cards to the leaders I worked with.
Not because it’s a strategy. Not because it guarantees results. But because it’s the right thing to do, and it strengthens the relationship.
But here’s the bonus: One of those handwritten cards recently reminded a leader that they wanted to bring me back for a virtual training.
They literally said, “Thanks for the card, it reminded me to follow through on booking you.”
That’s the thing about a handwritten card: You’re not just saying “thank you.” You’re saying, “I remember you. You matter to me. I care enough to put in effort.”
And effort is rare. Effort stands out. Effort builds trust.
4 Reasons Handwritten Cards Should Be in Every Leader’s Toolbox
If you’re still not convinced, here are four reasons why this forgotten tool is actually one of your most powerful leadership habits:
1. They Create an Emotional Connection
Handwritten words feel different. They’re felt, not just read. Your handwriting, your tone, your message, it all makes it personal. That emotional connection builds trust and strengthens relationships in a way no emoji ever will.
2. They Show Effort (Which Communicates Value)
Effort communicates worth. When someone gets a handwritten card, they feel seen, valued, and respected, because you gave them your time and energy, not just your words. In leadership, effort equals impact.
3. They Cut Through the Noise
A handwritten card isn’t buried under 3,000 unread emails. It sits on a desk. Gets pinned to a board. Becomes a keepsake. It’s not just another message, it’s a reminder that lingers.
4. They Spark Action
You’d be surprised how often a handwritten card becomes the spark for a new opportunity, a reopened door, or a deepened connection. Not because you asked for something, but because you invested in the relationship.
How to Start Using Handwritten Cards in Your Leadership
You don’t have to be a poet. You don’t need perfect handwriting. You don’t even need fancy stationery (though it doesn’t hurt).
You just need a plan and a pen.
Here’s how to get started:
1. Build It into Your Weekly Rhythm
Schedule 30 minutes each week to write 3–5 cards. After meetings, trainings, or important moments, write the card that same day.
Consistency is key.
2. Keep Cards and Stamps Handy
Make it easy to follow through. Keep cards in your bag, drawer, or car. Always have stamps on hand. Remove the friction.
If you make it easy, you’ll do it more often.
3. Be Specific and Sincere
Don’t write a generic “thanks for your time.”
Instead, be specific:
- “I appreciated the way you asked intentional questions.”
- “Your passion for your team was inspiring.”
- “Thanks for letting me speak into your leadership journey.”
Personal + meaningful = memorable.
4. Encourage Without Expectation
Don’t write cards with an agenda. Write them because it’s the right thing to do.
Encouragement isn’t a strategy, it’s a leadership discipline.
Leaders: Write the Words That Leave a Mark
In a world starving for connection, your words can be the difference.
So let me challenge you today:
Who do YOU need to send a handwritten card to this week?
- A team member who’s gone above and beyond?
- A mentor who shaped your journey?
- A client you just worked with?
- A young leader who’s showing promise?
Don’t wait. Don’t overthink it. Just write it.
Because when you speak with people, with your voice, your pen, and your heart, you don’t just build better communication…
You build better leaders.
Want more practical ways to connect, build trust, and elevate your leadership communication? Explore the full Speak with People blog and join our growing community of intentional communicators.
By Jason Raitz - CEO, Speak with People With over 25 years of experience, Jason has spoken from stages across the country, inspiring and motivating his audiences with stories, laughter, and practical tools to succeed. Book Jason for your next conference or workshop.
