If you’ve read much of our content, you know that I am not a “words” person. I grew up with the motto “Show me, don’t tell me.” So, for years, I underestimated the power of words. Writing kind notes or cards does not come naturally to me, but I have found a few keys to success. If you’re like me, and have a hard time coming up with the right things to say in cards, here are a few tips to help your card stand out!
1.Whatever you do, DO NOT just rely on the Etsy or Amazon note to cut it. Even if the words are thoughtful – does anyone really get the warm and fuzzies from the formatted note on low-quality paper? Ugh. I mean – how do you want your friend, client or employee to feel when they read your card? Cheap? Low rent? No! So, start with a high-quality card.
2. Find a card that speaks to them. My husband loves funny cards, so that’s usually the way I go for him. He also loves Nick Offerman…so if there’s a Nick Offerman card that’s funny, even better. I am pretty crafty (the paper and glue kind), so if you’re buying a card for me, I love the ones with quilling or di-cuts. Really it comes down to knowing who you are speaking to. Try your best to find a card that fits that person’s personality.
3. Add in a for-cause element. If your person is into gifts that give back, chances are, they’ll be into a card for a cause as well. There are so many beautiful cards made by the blind, special needs children, and women from impoverished countries. The mission behind the card will add an element of warmth to the gift and card.
4. If you’re purchasing a corporate gift, make sure you write to the recipient as a person, and not just a client/employee. We all know that people are multi-dimensional. If all you write in a client card is how much you appreciate their business, it will fall flat. What do you enjoy about them specifically? Are they a problem-solver? Innovative? A pleasure to talk to? Those things will stand out a lot more than something like “we appreciate your business,” which can easily be taken as “I love you for your money.” It’s ok to say their business means the world to you, but just don’t let that be only thing you say.
5. If you really, really, really don’t know what to say, let the card speak for you. There are thousands of cards out there with beautiful messages already inside. Take the time to read them and find one that seems like it was written just for your recipient. Or find a poem to hand-write in the card. If your recipient is someone who appreciates words, they will notice the thoughtful touch.
6. Lastly, whatever you do, DO NOT just rely on just the Etsy or Amazon note to get your message across. We know this was also #1 – but we felt like it was important enough to reiterate. Seriously – unless your recipient is a transformer, this is not the way to go.
For some, the card is an afterthought. Other people save them for years. Cheers to writing a card that’s worth saving.
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