Thank You Notes
Hi all, Coach Lauren here!
We’re just a few weeks away from November, and November and Thanksgiving bring some well-deserved attention to gratitude practices and today I wanted to share one of mine: thank you letters.
I’m fortunate to have had great parents who taught me the value of writing thank you letters. After every birthday I had less than a week to get all my thank you’s written and mailed. Admittedly as a kid this felt like a chore, but in adulthood I can definitely see the value – and it is fun to spread good energy! Between my parents, previous managers, career counselors, and more, here’s some tricks I’ve picked up along the way about thank you letters.
Instances – What situations warrant thank you letters?:
- After an interview – thank the interviewer for their time and for giving you an opportunity
- After a special assignment (such as an internship) wraps up – thank your sponsors, mentors, etc. for all they taught you, and for giving you an opportunity
- After someone does exceptional work – thank the individual for their hard work, contributions, and shed light on what strengths they brought to the project
- After someone gets you a gift – thank them for the thoughtfulness, and say how you plan to use the item
- After someone hosts you in their home – thank them for their hospitality and for ensuring you had a wonderful time
- After someone plans an event for you (baby shower, birthday party, etc.) – thank the planner for the time and effort that went into the event
- After the school year – thank your teachers for all their hard work and energy they invested into your learning (Note for parents: suggest having your children write these so they get practice! If they are too young then think about other creative ways you can still engage them in the process)
Timing – When should the thank you be sent?:
- It is best to send a thank you note as soon as possible
- But, a late thank you is still better than none!
Methods – What’s the best way to pass along the message?:
- Buy blank thank you cards in bulk, and hand write
- Simply write on any paper – even a sticky note on your coworker’s desk can do wonders!
- Type an email or LinkedIn message
- Send a virtual “Kudos” card (several websites provide this)
Final idea: something I love doing (especially at work when I’m thanking someone for exceptional work) is including an affirmation card that fits the person or situation. There are all sorts of affirmation card decks available to purchase, or you can download and print my free affirmation cards! It is fun to see folks save these cards, put them on display, etc. It is a very simple way to add an extra touch of thoughtfulness and gratitude.
Do you have other ideas for thank you letters? Please share in the comments!
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Miki Huntington, M.A., CPC Lauren Foxwell, MBA Stacey Walter Dorene MacVey, PCC Marli Overman, PHR, CPC
