[MollySue]

I would like some other opinions please on a discussion about which is better, hand written envelopes or printed labels.

One argument is that hand written, if neatly done, gives a since of the “personal touch” and welcoming as if you know the person it is addressed to. Printed labels are professional, very organized and business like.

I believe that it would depend on the person/business and type of letter you are sending.

Any thoughts?

[Chrissy Scivicque]

MollySue - I agree with you that it depends on the business and the type of letter you're sending. In my old position as Executive Assistant for a wealth management firm, we sent birthday cards and holiday cards that were all handwritten. However, anything that was being sent for business purposes (such as quarterly reports or transaction authorization forms) were sent with printed labels.

Just as you said, I think handwritten labels show thoughtfulness and personal care, while typed labels show efficiency and professionalism. There's a time and place for each I believe.

[galfriday]

Ditto! As always, well said Chrissy!

[MollySue]

Thank you for confirming what I already knew.

[bluemoon8118]

I know I'm coming into this pretty late in the game...

But in my experience, volume plays a role as well. If I need to mail a meeting announcement out to less that 5 people, I will just hand write the envelope rather than printing the labels. I agree with Chrissy though - the occasion determines this too. Anything formal should be printed.

[LisaOlsen]

Another idea to add. Rather than printing separate labels, for business size envelopes, I just ran them through my printer using the feature in Word. Quick, clean and professional.

I agree that it depends on the correspondence. But, in the business environment, the greater percentage of letters, etc. will not be of a personal nature. Always lean on the side of professionalism when in doubt!

[badgergirl]

I agree with bluemoom8118. If I have one or two pieces of mail to go out, I typically just hand write the address. If it is over 10 I will use labels. I use mail merge when I have to print labels is helps eliminate typing every address several times in several places.