Over several months, I have been following a discussion thread on Linked In that asks whether it is better to send hand written or computer generated thank you note.
It has been a lively and thoughtful discussion.
Here is my take on the discussion, coming from my perspective as a donor and as a development professional with more than twenty years experience.
For me, the most important factor is time.
In spite of the ability to mass generate thank you letters, it is rare that I receive an acknowledgment in less than two or three weeks.
Last fall, I made a memorial donation to a hospice in memory of a friend's father.
The contribution was mailed on a Thursday.
The next Wednesday, I was thrilled to receive a thank you letter in the mail.
It was computer generated, but timely.
This organization will receive another gift this year because of their responsiveness.
The content of the letter is not as important as the timing.
If the letter is short, I may read it.
The truth is, unless there is a hand signed note, I generally check to make sure the amount is correct and file it in my tax file for the next year.
Personally, I prefer a type written note over a hand written note for my taxes.
But I am always delighted to receive a follow up letter that has the personal touch, especially if it contains information that is of specific interest to me.
Adding a hand written note to the computer generated letter is a good way to demonstrate your appreciation for the gift.
A thank you phone call is another good alternative.
Either of these actions will distinguish your organization from most other organizations.
In a fundraising environment where most organizations seem to be more interested in the next gift, rather than acknowledging the current gift, attention to this small detail may assure that you will receive another gift from the donor.
If you are not sure what your donors will appreciate.
Ask them! The fact that you took the time to speak with them will build even a stronger relationship with them.