Greeting Card Designers and Writers

According to the Greeting Card Association (GCA), the greeting card industry's retail sales have increased steadily from $2.1 billion in 1980 to between $7 and $8 billion today. From designing animated e-mail messages to greeting card software programs, greeting card writers and designers will likely find more and more outlets for their work. Advances in Web technology should also aid the card designer in posting his or her ideas and images online to invite companies to browse, download, and purchase ideas.

Average growth is expected for this career in coming years. Despite the growing popularity of e-mail, GCA says the industry will not be adversely affected. E-cards are not as personal as standard greeting cards, nor are they appropriate for many situations, such as weddings, anniversaries, or for expressing sympathy. "Although e-mail, text messaging, and phone calls are valued by Americans for helping them communicate with family and friends, the majority of Americans say they prefer the old-fashioned handwritten card or letter to make someone feel truly special," the GCA says.