Christmas Card Etiquette Part I

Right about now is a good time to start thinking about the Christmas cards you’ll be sending out this year. It’s always smart to buy your cards early so you can begin working on your list early – that way you won’t be struggling to finish your shopping, wrap your presents, plan Christmas parties, and write your Christmas cards at the same time.

This time around let’s look at some etiquette guidelines for sending Christmas cards to business associates.

Choosing the Right Cards

If you’re sending cards to co-workers, vendors, clients, employers, or other business associates, you’ll probably want to choose a different card than the one you are sending to your family and friends. You want something a little more formal and more secular – remember you don’t necessarily know any one person’s religious leanings so don’t presume. Instead of “Merry Christmas” cards choose “Seasons Greetings” or “Joy to the World” cards. A few good examples are the Blue Bauble cards, the Snowflake with Stripes cards, or the Global Ornaments cards.

Make sure you create a list of recipients before you order so you’ll know exactly how many to purchase.  You don’t want to run out then end up not being able to purchase the same cards for the rest of your business associates.

Other Christmas Card Etiquette Rules to Remember

When you are sending cards to individuals with whom you only have a business relationship, make sure to send the cards to their office not their home address. It’s also completely acceptable to address those cards to only that individual unless you also know their spouse. Likewise, sign only your name to those cards unless your spouse or family has met them as well.

If you are sending cards to your co-workers, you should mail those cards directly to their home address. Don’t pass them out in the office, especially if you don’t have a Christmas card for everyone. If you know the individual is married, then address it to “Mr. and Mrs. Name and Family.” If you’re not sure, then address it to the person and Family.

You should take the time to add a brief message even to your Christmas cards for business associates, but your message should be more formal and concise than what you would write to friends and family. You might want to wish the person continued success in the New Year, for example. Remember not to include any family newsletters or other personal information you might send to other recipients.