Why I Still Send Postcards
In an era of instant uploads and “lives” from the beach, the art of the handwritten note might seem like a relic of a bygone era. We’ve all been there, scrolling through a feed, seeing a friend’s sunset dinner in real time, and feeling like we’re right there with them for a fleeting second.
While I love the inspiration social media provides, I’ve always felt that digital sharing can feel a bit… well, temporary. It is broadcast to everyone, but sometimes it does not truly “speak” to anyone.
A Legacy of Connection
My journey with postcards actually began years ago during my 27 year tenure at the Guelph Mercury. I remember a specific trip to the East Coast, winding along the Cabot Trail. I found myself in a small French village and stumbled upon a postcard of that exact town. It happened to be the very place one of my clients was born and raised before eventually moving to Guelph.
I sat down, wrote a quick note, and sent it off. The reaction when I returned was incredible. It was more than just a piece of mail; it was a deeply personal connection that was received with genuine warmth.
That experience set something in motion. To this day, I still keep a few note cards sent to me by friends over 25 years ago. There is a weight and a resonance to a physical card that a “like” on a screen simply cannot replicate.
The “Do You Ever Work?” Dilemma
As a Guelph Real Estate Professional, I often hear the joke: “Michael, do you ever work?” when people see travel photos.
The reality of our industry is that it is a seven day a week commitment. My days are spent navigating supply chain challenges in local housing and advocating for the community through the GHHBA, and tending the the business side of being an entrepreneur, while my evenings and weekends are dedicated to my clients, showing homes in The Ward, Victoria North, or near Riverside Park.
Vacations are my time to recharge so I can continue providing high authority service. But instead of broadcasting every meal on social media, I prefer a more quiet, personal approach. I choose to bring my friends, clients, and colleagues along for the ride through a deeply personal postcard.
Why You Might Find One in Your Mailbox
If a postcard from a far-off destination arrives at your door, it is because something I saw reminded me of you. It is a small way of saying that even when I am halfway across the world, my relationships, the core of my business, remain my priority.
Sometimes, you might receive a postcard featuring one of my own photographs of Guelph. Whether it is sunset behind the Basillica, a view of Guelph from Cutten Fields Patio, or the morning mist over Guelph Lake, I send these because I want to share the unique beauty of the city our families have called home for generations.
If you receive one, I hope it brings a smile to your face. If you want one from my next adventure, please just send me a note.
Michael Bennett – Guelph Real Estate Professional Building relationships, one postcard (and one home) at a time.