Does Anyone Still Use Snail Mail?
[by Todd Joyce]
Getting an email thank you is nice, but when I get a hand written thank you via snail mail (SM), it simply means more. I certainly give it more weight, because fewer people give the added effort, so it stands out as special. I suggest sending a thank you to clients when there is a purpose to thank them.
Now, on to the main question. Does it matter to our clients/potential clients if you send something via SM or email? It depends. As I pointed out before, a SM thank you will certainly get noticed more because it’s not the “norm.” Standing out gets you noticed. The bigger question is, does your work stand out? If not, it won’t matter what vehicle it was delivered as. Great work will get noticed no matter which you choose.
There are good points to both SM and email though. I believe a SM promo has a longer life potential. If the piece impresses the buyer, it could get pinned up on a board in their office, giving it more life than just the one contact. Some agencies have a wall in their coffee area dedicated to artist’s work that has impressed them. The potential is there to be on the wall, but it needs to be something special to warrant wall space. And, I’ve never seen an email on that wall… However, emails get forwarded, so there is also a viral potential for spread if it’s good enough. And, there’s nothing wrong with sending both. Ask your closest clients what they prefer or what impresses them most.
So to answer the question, yes, I still use snail mail. I also use email.
Todd Joyce is a recent Past President of ASMP and specializes in conceptual people photography for advertising. See Todd’s work at joycephotography.com and contact him at todd@joycephotography.com
2 Responses to 'Does Anyone Still Use Snail Mail?'
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I use both too. I usually send an Email campaign then follow-up with a SM mailing. This way I cover both options. this also lets the client know that my work looks as good in print as it does electronically. Seems to be working so far.
What a coincidence that I read this post today as today is the day I usually write and snail mail my holiday notes of appreciation to the clients who’ve entrusted me during the past year.
Not only is it one of my favorite holiday rituals but I also enjoy the focus it takes to write each one by hand; it puts me in a great mental space. The act of writing something by longhand– in these days of ubiquitous keyboard communications– feels like an intentional meditation on gratitude and appreciation. Can’t imagine it would be the same if I did it via email.