The Four Components of a Thank You Note
January 30, 2011
Even (and maybe “especially”) in a world where we communicate with quick texts and emails, the personal thank you card is still the best way to show your gratitude when someone gives you a gift.
But where do you start? What do you say?
Your personal note doesn’t have to be written on fancy paper, and you don’t have to have a degree in Journalism to find the right words to say. Don’t be intimidated. Be authentic. Be personal. Keep it simple.
Here are four key components to cover in your thank you note, to help you get you started:
- In the first sentence, say “thank you for” and state the gift you’ve been given. Example: Thank you for the wine glasses you gave us for our anniversary.
- Next, express a further detailed appreciation by remarking on qualities about the gift. Example: The glasses have already found a home on our dining room table. They look so elegant next to our everyday dishes!
- Share specific reasons why you like the gift. Example: We love to entertain, and can’t wait to show them off the next time we have friends over for a wine and cheese get-together.
- In the closing sentence, sign is pleasantly and friendly. And you can even add “Thanks again!” before your signature.
Don’t drag your feet…be sure to send out a personal thank you note within 48 hours of receiving a gift.
Gratitude will never be out of style, no matter how technically-advanced we become. Sending a personal note of thanks will not only let them know how much you appreciate the gift, but it also sends the message that you value the relationship enough to take the time to personalize your message.
Far better than being included in a group email of thanks, don’t you think?
photo: vistamommy
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5 Responses to The Four Components of a Thank You Note
Thanks so much for your comment, Dawn! I’m glad you found it a good refresh!
Great tip -thanks.
I find it interesting how much I appreciate thank you notes, keep them and find myself reading them from time to time….Yet how seldom remember to show my appreciation that way.
So…thank you Margaret for the timely reminder.
And keep up the good work.
Thank you for your comments, Tom! I keep all cards and notes, and like you, I appreciate every one of them! It’s always the simple courtesies that we forget so quickly, yet appreciate so greatly when we receive them.
Have a wonderful day!
A great reminder that thank you’s are still a very important part of proper ettiquette.
Eileen! Glad you enjoyed the blog article. Thanks so much for your comment! Hand-written hank you notes will never go out of style!