Mary Barra's Handwritten Connection with Executives
· outdoors
The Lost Art of Handwritten Connection in the Digital Age
Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, has made headlines for responding personally to every letter she receives. This practice may seem old-fashioned in today’s digital age, but it speaks volumes about the value leaders like Barra place on human connection.
Barra and a small group of CEOs are bucking the trend by embracing handwritten notes. These executives – including Chris Tomasso, CEO of First Watch – see handwritten communication as more than just a nicety; it’s a deliberate choice that acknowledges the worth of every individual interaction. For example, Carolyn Rodz, founder of a virtual startup accelerator for women, wrote to Barra as a stranger and received a personalized response that not only validated her vision but also sparked loyalty and respect.
What’s remarkable about these CEOs is their willingness to make time for handwritten communication despite being among the busiest executives in their respective industries. Barra has consistently treated intentional communication as part of her job, from responding to customer letters to acknowledging employees’ milestones. Her openness makes the corner office feel more reachable than it seems, fostering a sense of connection with workers, customers, and even complete strangers.
One notable aspect of Barra’s approach is that she treats handwritten notes as an essential part of her job. This means taking time to write something by hand – not just for the recipient but also for herself. By doing so, she demonstrates that human connection is still essential in today’s increasingly automated world.
Other executives like Geoffroy van Raemdonck, now CEO of Saks, have also emphasized the importance of personalized outreach. Their stories offer a glimpse into the power dynamics at play: when leaders make time to respond personally to letters or notes, it can have a lasting impact on individuals and even drive brand loyalty.
As we navigate our increasingly automated world, it’s essential to remember that human connection is what truly sets us apart. By embracing handwritten communication, these CEOs are sending a powerful message – one that encourages us all to slow down and appreciate the value of every interaction.
Reader Views
- MTMarko T. · expedition guide
It's refreshing to see CEOs like Mary Barra putting in the effort to connect with people on a personal level through handwritten notes. However, we should also consider the resource implications of such an approach - in today's fast-paced business world, how do these executives manage their workload while still finding time for individualized correspondence? What's the tipping point between genuine connection and overwhelming administrative burden?
- TTThe Trail Desk · editorial
The art of handwritten connection is more than just a feel-good story - it's a strategic move in today's digital landscape. By taking the time to put pen to paper, leaders like Mary Barra are creating a human touch that sets them apart from their competitors. However, this approach also highlights the paradox of prioritizing personal connections while still relying on automation and AI-driven systems. How will companies balance these competing forces as they strive for authenticity in a increasingly mechanized world?
- JHJess H. · thru-hiker
It's refreshing to see leaders like Mary Barra prioritizing human connection in a world dominated by digital communication. But what about those who don't have the luxury of responding personally to every letter? For instance, mid-level managers or small business owners with heavy workloads can't possibly match Barra's level of handwritten correspondence. What we really need is scalable solutions that allow these leaders to still convey their values without breaking the bank or sacrificing productivity – perhaps leveraging technology in innovative ways to automate and streamline personalized communication.