While some messages are ideal for email or fax, there are some things that should never be sent that way. It's all too easy to cop out on sending a proper thank you note, invitation, or confidential message. By simply sending an email, you also send the message that it's not important enough or confidential enough for you to use a more traditional means of communicating.
ACTION ITEM
Make sure you have the materials on hand—cards, stamps, addresses—to communicate in more traditional ways. This makes it easy to do something that others don't. You've got to systemize these types of mailings, or they won't get done.
In most areas of the country, there are stores that feature paper goods and discount greeting cards. In fact, some of them are so affordable it is almost ridiculous. So stock up on thank-you cards, invitations, birthday cards, and note cards with no message inside. Get in the habit of recognizing people, inviting them to special events, thanking them for what they do, and celebrating things like birthdays or anniversaries. By using traditional mailing methods, you'll be different, because most people these days simply send emails. Prospects will recognize your extra effort and reward you for it. Remember, you're building relationships. You should do personal things for people with whom you have a relationship!
TAKEAWAY
Get in the habit of using traditional means to
communicate that other people have abandoned,
and you will stand out in the crowd.