Yes, it’s that time of year again and the same old question still pops up…
to send or not to send Greeting Cards!

The closer Christmas gets the more calls for advice we receive. The questions being asked (which are really on everyone’s minds these days) regarding Greeting Cards generally sound like this…

Do we need to be aware of culture sensitivity and differences?
Do we send cards that are generic and not offensive or do we send traditional cards?
In this day and age is it necessary to send cards at all?
Is there a company policy to observe or is it completely left to my own discretion?

There are several reasons to send greeting cards. First, it gives you and your company the chance to create more good will by reconnecting with old clients. Second, it definitely shows appreciation to new clients and potential clients. Third, it enhances your company’s brand in the business community as well as your own personal one.

If you are wondering what to do, I’m giving you a bit of advice that should take the stress out and help you through this challenging time of an age old ritual.

1. If you know your company and clients are traditional, to send a traditional corporate card which reads “The Richmond Design Company wishes you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year” is perfectly acceptable. It would be sent to the client at the business address and not to his/her home unless you know this client socially as well. In that case, it is a gracious gesture to address it to both husband and wife.

2. If you aren’t sure, or know that your clients observe holidays other than Christmas, play it safe. It’s important to be sensitive to others’ traditions. Maybe in these instances if there are differences you might choose a card for those individuals with a message that reads “Happy Holidays” or “Greetings of the Season.”

3. There’s no mistake … quality cards count. Always purchase the best cards you can afford.. Don’t skimp and buy boxed cards in the supermarket but try a good stationary store. After all, you want to let your clients and colleagues know that they are worth the investment. It also projects the impression that your business is successful and prosperous.

4. Here’s your chance to put all those hours of penmanship to work for you. It’s important that you personally sign each card adding a short note. Stay away from having your name printed on the inside of the card … you do want to be seen as a Class Act!

5. It’s quite crass to use computer labels to address the envelope. The envelope should be hand addressed by someone that has a beautiful hand (your mother, favorite aunt or secretary).

6. If you know someone works from home, it’s quite acceptable to send the greeting card to the home address and only to the one who works there.

7. Titles are always used when addressing envelopes. It’s “Ms. Sally Jones”not “Sally Jones”.

8. When the recipient is a couple, address the envelope to “Mr. and Mrs. Bill Reed” not “Bill and Joan Reed”.

9. Avoid the last minute hassle. November is the perfect time to prepare your greeting cards.

10. When the cards are prepared, they can then be mailed early December ensuring that your cards with get to their destination on time.

When you are through and the deed is done, you’ll be at ease and

BE WREATHED IN YULETIDE SMILES !

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