When I became President of The Manuscript Society (www.manuscript.org) in 2002, I asked the Executive Director to send me a list of all of those individuals and institutions that had not renewed their Society membership. There were about 240. I had stationery made – “The Manuscript Society” with my name as President – my address, phone number and email address. And I began sending letters. Handwritten ones – to every one of the 240 who did not renew. Now mind you – I had a full time job lawyering. And I was verrrry busy. But – for about a month, I stuck around my office for a few extra hours each night to write letters and address envelopes.

My letters were straightforward – like “I understand you haven’t renewed. . . . we miss you. . . . please let me know of any questions. . . . give me a call or send me a note. . . . we’d like you back. . . . yadda yadda. . . .” Well – within a week, responses began to arrive. Most with checks (a few made out to me!). And during the coming weeks, I believe 94 folks renewed their membership. I also received six notes from relatives – advising that the member had passed away. I then bought six sympathy cards and – with a handwritten note – sent them to family members on behalf of the Society. The son of one man who had died responded — with his own check for membership plus a “rounded up” gift to the Society.

I am convinced that handwritten letters can make a difference. Sure – it takes extra time but there is no downside. And who knows what smiles you might bring – or responses that might come in the door.