Over the past year, I have made writing thank-you notes a top business priority. I am not talking about an email thank you, I am talking about a good old-fashioned handwritten thank you note. I have invested in high-quality stationery, found a few favorite pens, and blocked a couple of precious hours each week to write.
Recently I read an article written by Harvard Health Publishing discussing the power of writing a thank-you. Surprisingly it is not only the receiver that benefits but also the sender. I know it is good manners to write a thank you but the overwhelming feeling of gratitude I have felt has been both amazing and rewarding.
Tips to help you write the perfect thank you
The art of writing a thank you note lies in its simplicity and sincerity. Here are some tips to help you write a heartfelt thank-you note:
- Be specific: Begin your note by mentioning the specific reason you are writing. This could be for a gift, a business deal, an act of kindness, or simply for someone’s presence in your life.
- Use a warm and friendly tone: Use language that reflects your personality and the nature of your relationship with the person. A friendly, conversational tone is usually more effective than formal language.
- Express your gratitude: Be sincere in your expression of gratitude. Let the person know how much you appreciate their thoughtfulness or their business and how it has impacted your life.
- Personalize your message: Include a personal anecdote or detail to show that you put thought and effort into your message. This makes the note more meaningful and memorable.
- Close with warmth and sincerity: End your note with a warm and sincere message. Express your appreciation once again and convey your hope to stay in touch.
Remember that a thank you note doesn’t have to be lengthy or elaborate to be effective. The most important thing is that your message comes from the heart and reflects your genuine appreciation. Below are a few of my favorite pens. Sometimes I pick a pen for comfort or the way it glides across the paper.
I encourage you to take the time to write a thank you note. You might feel your efforts will be misunderstood or you might struggle to find the right words. I promise that a thank you will go a long way not only for you but the individual that receives your appreciation and gratitude.
