Why Handwritten Cards Matter More Than We Think at Work

Written By Ravinder Gabble

Think about the last time you received a handwritten card at work – perhaps from a colleague or a manager.

Now, think back to how it made you feel.

You might describe it as feeling grateful, recognized, proud, joyful, happy – or simply, appreciated.

According to the Work Wellbeing Playbook, appreciation is one of the key, evidence-based drivers of workplace wellbeing (1). When employees feel appreciated at work, research shows this can lead to several positive wellbeing outcomes, including:

  • Increased job satisfaction

  • Lower burnout

  • Improved day-to-day emotions

  • Stronger relationships with co-workers

And, of course, from an organizational perspective, happier and healthier employees often translate into higher productivity, as well as improved recruitment and retention.

On a personal note, I’ve tried to keep most of the handwritten cards I’ve received from colleagues and managers over the years, with a few extra-special ones displayed on the whiteboard in my office. Each card is a visual representation of the meaningful relationships I’ve built throughout my career. They also offer a small but powerful reminder that I am not only appreciated and valued, but also supported by an incredible network of people.

So, while a handwritten card or note may seem like a simple gesture, it is, in fact, a powerful way to help foster a supportive and inclusive work culture — one where employees feel a sense of belonging and know that they truly matter.

(1) Regier, C., Cunningham, S., Fleming, W., Kirienko, A., Kaats, M., & De Neve, J. (2025). Work Wellbeing Playbook: A Systematic Review of Evidence-Based Interventions to Improve Employee Wellbeing. World Wellbeing Movement.

Ravinder Gabble