What Makes a Good Letter?

Happy Tuesday lemonheads! Hope you are all doing very well. Today I have been thinking about what makes a good letter. I think whether it is personal or business, a good letter has some distinct markings. Correspondence is something that falls by the wayside at times. Sometimes we just don’t have enough time to craft our message. Today I want to remind you of a few brief tips that will help your letter writing abilities.

I think time is an important tip when thinking of letter writing. I am one of the most impatient people in the world. It is a fact, Jack. But. When I really want to communicate with someone through a letter, I take a little extra time to put thought and care into my words. I don’t take all day, but I do take a little more time in crafting my note than I would when writing an email.

I also find it is important to think. Think about the receiver of the letter. Think about why you are writing in the first place. Think about what you want to convey to the recipient. Just take a little time and think through the method to your madness.

Sincerity is always important when writing letters. I think that whether you are writing to a client or a personal friend, one can tell if you are being sincere or not. I think an implied tone of voice always floats through correspondence. I would much rather receive a two sentence, heartfelt note scratched on a grocery list, rather than a lengthy, disingenuous letter written on fine stationery. A little authenticity goes a long way.

Of course I couldn’t write this article without giving a little shout out to some nice stationery. I think that what you write on sets the tone as much as how you write. A fun colorful note card can cheer a receiver’s day or an elegant monogram on top quality paper can set the tone for a distinguished business note.

What do you think lemon ladies and gents? Is letter writing dead (I hope not or I am out of business!) or is it still alive and kicking? Do you have any tips or stories you would like to share about letter writing?