Why Handwritten Notes Are More Than Just Nostalgia for CEOs Like Mary Barra

In an age dominated by AI and automation, it’s fascinating to see some of the world’s busiest executives embrace something as tactile and traditional as handwritten letters. I recently stumbled upon the story of Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, who still insists on responding to every letter she receives by hand. It made me wonder, in a world racing towards efficiency, why this old-school approach still holds weight.

The Power of Personal Touch

Mary Barra, at the helm of a $65 billion automotive giant, personally answers each letter she receives. Whether it's a note from a loyal Chevrolet driver or a concerned school child, her response comes in ink on paper. Barra's choice might seem quaint, especially when AI can churn out responses in seconds. Yet, she values the sincerity and connection that come with handwritten correspondence. At the 2025 New York Times DealBook Summit, she shared how customers write to her when their odometer rolls over impressive milestones, like 200,000 miles.

Such dedication echoes throughout her career, from the assembly line to the C-suite. The habit reveals an underlying belief in intentional communication as a cornerstone of leadership. It's not about always being right, it’s about being genuine. For Barra, a simple Q&A: Is it worth the time? Evidently, it's.

Wider Implications in the Business World

Barra isn't alone in this practice. Chris Tomasso of First Watch and Geoffroy van Raemdonck of Saks are other notable names who champion handwritten notes. These leaders recognize that while processes become more efficient, the human touch hasn’t lost its value. They see the potential of personal outreach in bolstering loyalty and appreciation among employees and customers alike.

Tomasso, for instance, has penned over 500 notes to celebrate his staff's milestones, reinforcing that their loyalty doesn’t go unnoticed. Imagine the impact on exchange volumes if crypto execs adopted such personal touches with stakeholders. Could this build stronger trust and engagement, especially in volatile markets?

And here's the thing: the digital race has often left traditional methods in the dust. But, the story of these CEOs offers an alternative narrative. The capital isn’t just in the tech. it’s in the relationships. As we look at the crypto space, which thrives on innovation, isn't there room for authenticity too?

Why This Matters for the Crypto Industry

In crypto, where the focus is often on automation and decentralization, the reminder that personal interaction still matters is significant. What if CEOs in crypto exchanges started reaching out with personal notes? Could this help in navigating regulatory clarity and building bridges with skeptical regulators? Who would’ve thought that pen and paper could be as impactful as blockchain?

The industry wins when it integrates the best of both worlds, tech efficiency and genuine interaction. It’s a playbook that Tokyo and Seoul might write differently from Western markets, but it’s one worth considering everywhere. Crypto’s future may indeed rely on digital prowess, but let's not forget the value of a simple, heartfelt gesture.

So, next time you think about how to engage an audience or build loyalty, remember that sometimes, the answer isn't just in a new app or tool. It might be in something as old-school as a handwritten note. In a community mastering complex algorithms, it’s a reminder that the basic principles of human connection still hold power.