TTM Tips: Questionnaires
I've enjoyed writing to players since I was a kid. At first I focused on players who were on the current Phillies team, then began sending letters to retired players whose cards I liked. In pre-internet days, I researched the players in programs or yearbooks before sending a request. Sometimes their stats or a short bio on the back of their card was all I had to go on. In crafting an autograph request letter I wove in things I had learned about the player. And, when my research prompted questions - I would throw in a quick questionnaire with my request letter.
Below are a few tips on receiving responses to questions you may have:
- Keep it brief! Two or three questions, at the most.
- Make the questions meaningful for both you and the player. Again, in cases where I have asked questions they were (usually) in response to something I had learned about their career. Make sure your question is directly related to their experience(s) - not some generic question that will have little relevance to either of you.
- Be clear that a response is optional, and not expected. I like to write something like: "Any response you may have is appreciated."
- Craft the question so that a complete response is brief. If players are asked to describe their life story they probably will not respond. Because of my love for the history of baseball stadiums, one I have continued asking is, "What was your favorite park to play in, and why?"
You may not always receive a response, but by following these tried and true tips, you'll have a good chance in having your questions answered by a player TTM.