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| Typed Letters Don’t Make Him Smile! |
Collectors know that “tastes great” or “less filling” isn’t the only debate these days.
After the Sunday post, I fielded a reader question:
Do you write or type your letters?
This is an on-going discussion on the http://www.sportscollectors.net/ forum. Speed for typing.
Sincerity for hand-written.
I’ve chosen typed for another reason. Legibility.
I’m asking specific questions. If a retiree can’t read my handwriting, then I’m doomed.
Only once did I alter my game plan. That’s when I contacted former Mets pitcher Larry Miller. Thanks to collector pal Rich Hanson, he tipped me off that Miller had replied how he appreciated a collector who took the time to write by hand.
I think some collectors worry that a player might suspect a form letter if its printed from a computer. I differ on that concern. I do address envelopes by hand. (Businesses TYPE envelopes. Bills or junk-mail solicitations come in typed envelopes.) Once I’ve convinced someone to open my letter, that’s a major victory. Then, I hope my personal appeal makes my case, even without my iffy penmanship.
I believe that content matters most. If you’ve researched someone’s career (or can tell about seeing him in a specific game) you’ll make your point. You’re being personal and easy on the eyes.
What do you say, readers? Do hand-written or typed letters work best for you? Ever field complaints from signers?
Tomorrow: a 1940s Brooklyn Dodger shares the nickname Leo Durocher gave him.
This blog is very much innovative. Thanks for sharing this!
Letters
I always hand write my letters. I’ve heard debate for both sides. It’s just something I prefer to do. My typing skills are worse than my writing skills. I understand the part about poor penmanship, but for me it just seems a more personal touch by writing. To each their own.
I always go hand-written and try to put in a tidbit about his career, a memory I have of him, or specific questions I have. A few years back, I wrote to Rizzuto (while he was charging a fee) and included a check for the signed card. I also wrote about how I watched games he annoucned with my grandma, and how she loved when he talked abotu Italian food. I also told him she makes the best ravioli. Well, Mr Rizzuto signed my card, send a small signed photo and wrotea nice note on it, saying he “would love some ravioli.” And he also returned my check and wrote, “No Charge. – Scooter #10”.
Very interesting blog. I’ve thought about this many times. How do you get away from looking like a stalker too?