Although we live in a digital age, technology is still unable to replace every single thing in our lives – and it shouldn’t! Sure, sending holiday cards can be done via email now. However, an electronic video of a dancing cat in a Christmas hat doesn’t convey the same feeling as a physical card.
If your purpose of sending holiday cards is to expand your network, it is best to go for a physical card. These cards are able to express more emotional meanings and give off a personal feeling to their recipients. Whether it is for people you met at job interviews or meetings, you need to know how to make a card that is appropriate for them.
One thing to remember is you need to make it outstanding and memorable. If it looks like any other card, there is no way that the recipient will really remember you. To form a professional relationship, you need to present yourself to them in a way that is unlike all the rest.
Here are the steps to creating a holiday card to build connections:
1 – Compose the message
It isn’t a good idea to pick up a holiday card with a pre-written message from the grocery store. This does not make it meaningful or personal at all. The recipient might as well think that you are buying cards in bulk and sending it to everyone – which you probably are. Even with a store-bought card, however, it is crucial to craft the message yourself.
The key is to be proper and polite. You should not use slang or too much informal language on the card. It is a good idea to include their family in your blessing. For example, you may write “I wish you and your family peace and joy in this holiday season.” If the recipient has helped you with something, here is a chance to let them know how much you appreciate it. That being said, the message should not be long and drawn out. Clear and concise always does the job!
2 – Write the message
Once you have a message in mind, it is time to write it down. Try to avoid printing it out. IT’s best to handwrite it to make it personal. If you can do calligraphy, this is the time to use your talent. Keep in mind that you need to make it easy to read for the recipient.
We suggest that you write the message on a piece of paper first. This way, you will get to choose which style of handwriting is most suitable on the card. Do not forget writing your email on it to make it easy just in case they want to get in touch with you.
3 – Skip nonholiday-related messages
Remember – this is a holiday card, not a cover letter or a job application. No matter how much you want to work with them, don’t write a message that isn’t related to the season in any way. Instead of expanding your connections, you might end up being on the recipient’s blacklist. You should be trying to show them that you are sending the card out of sincerity.
4 – Mail the card
Chances are that you haven’t used the postal service in a while, so don’t forget to buy a postage stamp. An envelope without a stamp won’t make it to its destination. Our tip is to mail the card one week before the holiday. This is because your recipients may see how genuine you are and possibly invite you to their holiday party. If this happens, it is an excellent opportunity to get to know them better and build up your professional network!
