How to write a thank you note

Gratitude is a virtue every man should cultivate. Yet gratitude means nothing if you haven’t mastered the art of expressing it. A man should use every opportunity to express to those around him how much he appreciates their love, support, and generosity. One of the key ways of expressing gratitude is the thank you note. Unfortunately, many men today completely overlook this aspect of etiquette and consequently, break the hearts of sweet little grandmas everywhere. Every gentleman should be knowledgeable of the whens and hows of writing thank you notes. Being a frequent and skillful writer of them will set you apart from your uncouth peers.

When to Write a Thank You Note

• When you receive a gift (especially if the gift is from your Italian grandma — if you don’t write a thank you note, she’ll put the moloch on you).
• When someone performs an act of service for you.
• When someone goes above and beyond what is asked of them, whether at work or in a friendship.
• After a job interview.
• When you stay overnight at someone’s home.
• If someone shows you around their town or city when you’re vacationing there, regardless of whether you stayed at their home or not.
• When someone has you over for dinner.
• When someone throws a party or event for you.
• Anytime someone does something extraordinary that warms your heart. Don’t be stingy with the thank you note. There’s never a wrong time to write one.

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Some Ground Rules

1. Always write the note as soon as possible. Send it within two weeks of attending the event or receiving the gift.

2. Send it through the mail. Email thank yous are certainly convenient, but except in response to very small things, they are not appropriate. Some may say, “Well, a thank you is a thank you. Why does it matter what form it takes?” Sending a thank you note through the mail shows effort. It shows that you took the time to put pen to paper, addressed an envelope, and bought a stamp. It’s tangible; they can touch it, hold it, and display it on the mantle. It makes your thank you far more sincere.

3. Use real stationery. Having to run to the store to buy a card every time you need to write a thank you note will make you drag your feet about writing them. So invest in some nice looking stationery. It doesn’t have to be fancy; buy something with a neutral, conservative theme so that the cards can be used for a variety of occasions.

How to Write a Thank You Note

1. Begin by expressing your gratitude for the gift/service. Your opener is simple: “Thank you very much for ______________.” If the gift was money, use a euphemism for it. Instead of “thank you for the dough,” say “thank you for your kindness/generosity/gift.”

2. Mention specific details about how you plan to use a gift or what you enjoyed about an experience. If you are thanking someone for holding an event like a party or dinner, be specific about what you enjoyed about it. If you are thanking someone for a gift, tell the note’s recipient how you plan to use it. This is true even for a monetary gift; tell the giver what you plan to spend it on or what you’re saving for.

3. For some recipients, add some news about your life. This isn’t always appropriate; obviously if you’re writing a thank you note for say, a job interview, you don’t want to tell them how you recently caught a two-foot bass. But if you receive a gift in the mail from people who see you infrequently and who would like to know more about what’s going on in your life (read: your grandparents), give a brief sketch about what you’ve been up to recently. You know Aunt Myrtle will love it.

4. Close by referencing the past and alluding to the future. If the person gave you the gift at a recent event, write, “It was great to see you at Christmas.” Then say, “I hope we all can get together again next year.” If the person sent the gift in the mail, and you see them infrequently, simply write, “I hope to see you soon.”

5. Repeat your thanks. “Thank you again for the gift,” makes the perfect last line.

6. Valediction. Valedictions are the words or phrases that come before your name. The hardest part of a thank you note is often choosing a valediction that appropriately conveys the level of your relationship with the recipient. “Love” can sometimes seem too gushy and “Sincerely” can seem too formal. If your affections fall somewhere between those two expressions, here are some neutral valedictions that can fit a wide variety of situations and relationships:

• Yours Truly
• Truly Yours
• Kindest Regards
• Warmest Regards
• Best Regards
• Respectfully

After receiving a gift, attending a dinner party, or leaving someone’s house from an overnight stay, you know you need to write a thank you note. However, you might not know exactly what to say. Most people want to send them, but it can be a huge struggle for some. They don’t always know how to put their thoughts into words.

Purpose of a Thank You Note

If you are at a loss for words when you sit down with paper and pen and try to write something to show gratitude for someone else’s generosity, follow this advice. You don’t have to use fancy wording or write anything worthy of an award.

The main thing you need to do is show how much you appreciate the gift or hospitality. Even if you didn’t care for the gift or if you didn’t have a wonderful time, you should still send a thank you note. After all, the person thought enough of you to get you a gift or prepare her home for you.

What You’re Thanking the Person For

Of course, you’ll need to use some of your own wording, but with a basic outline, it shouldn’t take too long to jot a thank you note to let others know how much you appreciate their gift, their hospitality, or their thoughtfulness.

At the beginning of the note, you need to be clear with the person what you are thanking them for and be specific. If this is for a gift at a shower, birthday party, or some other event that involved multiple gifts from a lot of people, have someone jot down who gave what as you open them.

If this is for an act of service, such as someone volunteering to mow your lawn or babysit your children, be clear. Mention the gift, service, or act you’re thankful for and show what it means to you. Even when a thank you note isn’t expected, thoughtful wording is important.

Show Gratitude

You might think that the importance of showing gratitude in your note is a given. However, there are some people who overlook writing a simple “Thank you,” even though that was the purpose of the note. Even if you don’t care for the gift, you should send a thank you note with an emphasis on the person’s thoughtfulness.

Phrases to help with the opening line:

• Thank you for the.
• I am grateful for.
• I am thankful for.
• I appreciate the.

State the Gift or Act

Don’t take the easy way out and simply state, “Thanks for the gift.” Although this is officially a thank you message, it lacks the personal touch that makes the note seem sincere. This will be the second part of the opening line or first sentence.

Here are some examples:

• Thank you for the lovely candlesticks.
• I am grateful for your warm hospitality.
• I am thankful for your friendship and willingness to listen when I need to talk.
• Thank you for watching my children during my dental appointment.
• I appreciate the gift card to my favorite restaurant.
• Thank you for hosting my family during the holidays.
• Thank you for the gift, but most of all, thank you for being at my Bar Mitzvah to help me celebrate such an important event.

Mention Your Reason for Being Thankful

This may include what you plan to do with the gift or how it helped you. Most of the time this part will be the second sentence of your thank you note.

Here are some examples of this part of the thank you note:

• My husband and I will celebrate our anniversary soon, and we will use the candlesticks to make the setting even more romantic.
• You made me feel like part of the family during our visit.
• I have had a difficult time making my decision, and you helped me tremendously by being there for me.
• They serve some of the best seafood in town, so I always look forward to eating there.

Here are some things you can write if you didn’t care for the gift or your overnight stay wasn’t as pleasant as you had hoped:

• With the weather being so cold lately, the scarf was a very thoughtful gift.
• It was so sweet of you to give me the box of mixed candies.
• You clearly put a lot of time into getting your home ready for me, and I appreciate your hospitality.

Add a Closing Statement

This should be something that is specifically targeted toward the person you are sending the thank you note to. You may write one or two sentences, depending on what you want to say and how well you know the other person. Avoid something generic that could go to anyone.

Here are some ways you can end the note:

• We would love to have you over for dinner sometime soon.
• I look forward to seeing you and John next time you are in the area. Give us a call before you come so we can clear our schedule.
• If you ever need someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to call.
• Maybe next time we plan a trip to (the name of the restaurant or venue), we’ll give you a call, and hopefully, you can join us.

Sign the Note

Personal signatures emphasize your relationship with the other person. If you have some sort of “friendship buzz phrase,” this is the place you can use it. Otherwise, come up with something that leaves the other person feeling good about what you are thanking her for.

Here are some examples:

• Love
• Warmly
• Friends always
• Pals forever
• Affectionately

Timing of a Thank You Note

The best time to send a thank you note is right after you receive the gift or whatever you are thanking the other person for. However, if a week or two has passed, don’t let that be an excuse not to send one. Just do it as soon as you can. One of the biggest mistakes some people make is procrastinating on sending a thank you note.

There’s an art to writing a thank-you letter. It goes beyond saying, “Thanks for _____. I really appreciate it.” We’ll show you some thank-you letter examples and templates that will help you express your gratitude in style.

We’ve all seen the movie and television trope where one character realizes that another has helped them and has a profound realization. The helped person usually says, with feeling, “Thank you. I don’t say it often enough.” But you don’t have to wait for that wind-beneath-my-wings moment to show your appreciation for someone. In fact, you don’t need an epiphany at all, just some common courtesy and the desire to make a good impression.

Thank-You Letter Types and Templates

You don’t need an excuse to send a thank-you letter—just a reason to be grateful. Here are a few different situations where sending a thank-you is good form, along with some templates to help you write the perfect expression of appreciation.

Job Interview Thank-You Letter

You did it! You wrapped up an awesome interview for a job you’re eager to land. Now that you’ve made a first impression, it’s time to send a thank-you note so that you’ll make a lasting one.

Don’t forget to use your thank-you letter as an opportunity to highlight why you’re the best candidate. Just keep it subtle. Remember, your goal is to express gratitude, not make a full-on sales pitch.

Dear [Interviewer’s Name],

[Opening line thanking them.] [Personalized detail about how you enjoyed meeting them, the hiring manager, and/or the team.] [Sentence that adds value to the discussions you had, and shows your passion for the company and position.]

[Sentence about how excited you are to hear from them, which also sets you up to send a follow-up email later.] [Closing sentence that thanks them again, and offers to provide further information.]

Dear Ms. Kingston,

Thank you for taking the time to meet with me yesterday to chat about the content marketing manager position at Really Big Corporation. It was a pleasure connecting with you and hearing how energized you are about the company’s content marketing and growth goals. Because of my background in influencer marketing, I was particularly interested in your innovative ideas for influencer outreach—they sparked some ideas of my own and left me with the sense that we’d make an excellent collaborative team.

You mentioned that you’ll be taking some time to make a hiring decision, so I’ll do my best to wait patiently despite how excited I am to be considered. Meanwhile, let me know if there’s any further info I can provide. Thanks again for choosing me.

Saying Thank-You to a Colleague

Is formally thanking a colleague who goes above and beyond required by office decorum? Not really. And yet, it’s a professional gesture that won’t go unnoticed. If you’ve ever felt unappreciated after helping a coworker succeed, especially if you were the unsung hero, then you already understand why a thank-you note for a colleague is a powerful tool for cementing working relationships.

Hi [Name], Thank you for [specific statement about what you’re thanking the recipient for]. [Sentence about why the person’s contribution deserves your gratitude.] [Sentence explaining the positive effect the recipient’s contribution had.]

[Optional: reiterate your thanks or offer a compliment or other friendly comment.]

Thank you for helping me put the final touches on the launch announcement video. You gave up some of your weekend to make it happen, and I just want you to know how much I appreciate your creative talents and energy. Your contributions made a difference, and we not only hit our deadline but created something awesome.

Thanks again. We crushed it!

Thanking Friends and Family

Sometimes, we forget to thank the people closest to us for the things they do or give to us. When a heartfelt face-to-face thank-you isn’t possible, a brief letter, card, or email is an excellent way to show that your friends’ and family members’ contributions haven’t gone unnoticed.

Thank you for [specific statement about what you’re thanking the recipient for]. [Sentence or two about why the recipient’s contribution was meaningful to you.] [Optional: A sentence praising the recipient for their kindness, generosity, etc.]

[Optional: Any personal closing statement.]

Thank you for your help with the family reunion—you’re my hero! The time you put into booking the hall and sending out invitations to family members, not to mention organizing the potluck, took much of the strain off me this year. I learned that, when I have someone to help me, the Nolan family reunion is not only manageable but fun. If you hadn’t jumped in to save the day, I might have ended up canceling it altogether and missing the chance to reconnect with everyone.

I’d love to take you out for coffee next time you’re in town as a small token of gratitude for all you’ve done. Give me a call!

You just walked out of a job interview—nailed it!

But you’re not done yet. In fact, most hiring managers pay very close attention to how well (and how rapidly) you write a thank you email after the interview.

Our advice? Start your follow-up as soon as humanly possible by writing a killer interview thank you note.

Our template makes it super easy.

Thank You Email Template

Hi [Interviewer Name],

Thank you so much for meeting with me today. It was such a pleasure to learn more about the team and position, and I’m very excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and help [bring in new clients/develop world-class content/anything else awesome you would be doing] with your team.

I look forward to hearing from you about the next steps in the hiring process, and please do not hesitate to contact me if I can provide additional information.

Sample Thank You Emails

So what does this template look like in practice? Here are a couple example thank you notes you can use to build your own perfect letter.

Sample #1

This one’s short and simple, perfect if you’re looking for a quick follow up after the first or second round interview and want to use the template more or less to a T.

Thank you so much for chatting with me today. It was such a pleasure to learn more about the marketing manager role, and I’m very excited about the opportunity to join News Crew and help your team bring a new readership to your amazing content.

I look forward to hearing from you about next steps, but please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can provide any additional information.

Sample #2

To stand out from the crowd, get more specific with your thank you note. Show you were paying attention in the interview and reiterate what a great fit you’d be for the job with an email that looks more like this:

I just wanted to thank you for inviting me to your office today. It was great to hear about 4Apps’ goals for streamlining your software and placing an emphasis on quality UX design, and how you see the engineering department playing a role in these initiatives. 4Apps seems like a wonderful place to work—and not just because you mentioned some great summer outings! I really admire the mission that drives your business, and look forward to the opportunity to work with your team to implement some of the ideas I mentioned around redesigning the homepage.

Please let me know if there’s anything else you need from me to move the process forward.

Have a great rest of your week,
Kyle Triston

Take Your Thank You Email to the Next Level

While the template above is all you need, if you really want to blow a hiring manager out of the water, add in another few lines before “I look forward to. ” with some ideas you have on how you could add value. Think: a quick mock-up of something you discussed in the interview if you’re in a creative role, taglines if you’re in branding, or some slides or possible partners if you’re in business development or sales.

It could look something like this:

Sample #3

Thank you so much for meeting with me today. I really enjoyed learning more about your career trajectory at CarRuns (and hearing what it was like to join as the fifth employee—so impressive!) and where you see the company going in the next couple years.

To follow up on our conversation about churned clients, I’ve attached a short deck I mocked up on my initial ideas for increasing renewals. Happy to discuss further if you see it being a helpful resource.

I can tell CarRuns is a special place to work, and I would be thrilled to join such an innovative, hardworking, and passionate team of individuals. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can provide to make your hiring decision easier.

Best regards,
Adelaide Jenkins

For more advice on taking your email to the next level, try Muse writer Alexandra Franzen’s tips for how to work your ideas into an irresistible follow-up.

Another way to go the extra mile—especially if your interviewer is more traditional or you have a feeling they’d appreciate a handwritten note—is to drop a card in snail mail as well. To connect the two, you can simply add a line to your email like:

PS. Just because I’m a sucker for handwritten thank you notes, you should be receiving a letter in the mail/I dropped a letter off at the front desk as well!

(And yes, even if you send a snail mail note, you’ll still want to send that quick email thank you to cover your bases—just in case your interviewer doesn’t get the letter right away.)

Your thank you note sets the tone as your first interview follow-up. So whatever you do: Don’t skip it. Use the template above to remind the hiring manager what a great applicant you are, and to show how much you care.

You’ve just gone on a fantastic informational interview—the person was excited to talk with you, answered all your burning questions, and had a glint in their eye that just maybe they’d consider you for a role at their company.

So, what do you do now? Go home and brag to your friends about your awesome meeting? Celebrate with a night out? Change your LinkedIn status to “Employed at [insert dream company here]” because you’re basically in? (OK, probably not that last one.)

But before all that, you should probably send the person a thank you note.

I know, groan—but this is actually essential if you want to stay on good terms with this person (also known as getting the heads up if and when their company’s hiring). For a purely selfish reason, it keeps you top of mind by literally putting your name in their inbox and gives you a chance to share (or re-share) anything significant about your skills or experience.

But for not-so-selfish reasons, it also shows that you appreciate them taking the time to meet with you Think: If you had an extra 30 minutes this week, would your first thought be, “I’d like to spend it with a stranger?”

And finally, it’s a great way to re-emphasize how much you’d like to work with them.

Template How to Write an Informational Interview Thank You Note

It was so nice to meet with you today! Thank you for taking the time to answer my (many) questions and talk about what it’s like at [Company]—it seems like an amazing place to work. I especially loved hearing about [something you enjoyed talking about].

I look forward to staying in touch as I continue [my job search/figuring out my next step]. I definitely plan on using your advice to [piece of advice that stuck with you]. And if [Company] has any openings in their [department] down the road, I hope you’ll let me know so I can apply.

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Why are thank-you notes important? How long does a thank-you note have to be? Here are the oft-forgotten fundamentals of writing a thank-you note.

Why write a thank-you note?

Thank-you notes are not only good manners, but also good for your health! Yes, it’s true!

A study in Psychological Science showed that writing a thank you letter both improves the giver’s happiness and put the writer in more positive spirits. That’s the power of gratitude!

While many thank-you letter writers get concerned about the exact words they use, it turns out that the recipients were simply touched at the warmth and thoughtfulness of the letter itself.

So, starting writing thank-you notes—and write them more often! It comes at very little cost and benefits everyone.

Which occasions require a thank-you note?

A gift traditionally requires a thank-you note from the recipient, no matter what the occasion for the gift—a holiday, birthday, anniversary, religious event, award, or accomplishment.

Thank-you notes are also recommended when services have been performed (especially as a favor or for free), when hospitality has been provided, or in appreciation of generosity or thoughtfulness.

When should a thank-you note be written?

Immediately. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes, and the less appreciative you will appear.

What is needed for a thank-you note?

Traditionally, a blue or black ink pen on fine stationery, a blank card, or suitable notepaper.

How do I write a thank-you note?

Write a draft first. Before using your “good” paper, gather your thoughts and jot them on a piece of scrap paper.

Keep each note short—three or four sentences is fine. You can express your thanks just as sincerely as you can in several paragraphs.

1. Write something personal/emotional about the giver. Do not use the word “I”: A thank-you note is not about you, it is about the person who gave you the gift. Some examples include “You are so thoughtful!” or “How did you know … ?” or “Your presence at [ EVENT ] was a gift, but the [ GIFT ] made it a truly special day.”
2. Comment on what you will do with the gift (especially if it is money) and/orhow you will use the gift (e.g., in school, on vacation, at work, in the kitchen, etc.). Be specific. “Thank you so much for the beautiful set of wineglasses! We really enjoy entertaining, so the glasses will get plenty of use”).
3. Express your thanks for the gift and the giver, e.g., his or her thoughtfulness or generosity or on what a special place he or she occupies in your family or heart or circle of friends.

Remember: Be authentic, be original, be sincere.

Once you are satisfied with your thank-you sentences, write them on the “good” paper.

• Start with “Dear [ NAME ],”
• End with cordial regards, e.g., “Sincerely,” or “With love,” or “You’re the best!” or “Yours truly,”
• Sign the thank-you note.
• Address the envelope, put a postage stamp on it, and mail it.

Can I print—not write in cursive—a thank-you note?

Printing a thank-you note is acceptable, but cursive is a nice touch (as long as it’s legible).

Can I just say “thank you” verbally to the giver?

You can—and should—say “thank you” to the giver when you receive a gift, but a proper appreciation should be expressed on paper and sent by mail.

Can I use email, social media, or the phone to say “thank you”?

You can express your thanks in those ways, but nothing beats a thank-you note written on paper and sent in an envelope.

If I do not like the gift, do I need to send a thank-you note?

Yes—but if you do not like a gift, do not reveal your displeasure in the note. Focus on your appreciation of the giver’s thoughtfulness, generosity, and good intentions. Remember the adage “It’s the thought that counts.” Keep an open mind: You may actually develop a fondness and appreciation for the item later.

What difference will a thank-you note make?

If you send a thank-you note, you and the gesture will never be forgotten. If you do not, you will not be forgotten either, but not for the same reason nor with the same regard.

At what age should kids send thank-you notes?

It’s a great idea to get children in the habit of writing their own thank-you notes by preschool age. If your child can’t write yet, transcribe the note for them and have them write (or scribble!) their name at the end. Recipients—whether grandparents, other family members, or friends—are guaranteed to be delighted!

Say thank you with a note … and a gift!

It’s OK to go overboard with your appreciation and send a thank-you gift. Make your own gift jars with something edible inside or see other fun gifts you can make in the kitchen.

Did you know?

National Handwriting Day is January 23!

Do you have any tips for writing the best thank you cards? Do you still write thank-you notes? Let us know in the comments below!

When you have lost a loved one you’ll want to thank all of your friends and family that stepped up and helped you get through the tough days when everything seemed unbearable and too much to handle. You’ll also want to acknowledge those who shared your tears, offered kind words and a tissue.

Thank You Note Timelines

It is not wrong to wait two weeks to send thank you notes after the death of a loved one or her funeral. It is also acceptable to wait a month, after other details surrounding the death have been sorted and you have had time to take care of yourself. Experts advise, however, that you should not wait longer than two months to send thank you notes.

Who Should Write a Thank You Note?

Traditionally, the bereaved is the person who writes a thank you note to acknowledge the help and kindness given by others. However, if the bereaved is still struggling to cope with the loss, it is acceptable for a friend or family member to assist with the note-writing on his behalf or to include the bereaved in a note from the family.

Those Who Should be Given a Thank You Note

Clergy that assisted with services should always be sent a personal note. However, send any monetary offerings in a separate envelope.

Those who sent you flowers should be acknowledged. If a group or organization sent flowers, address the note to the leader of the group, but all the members should be recognized in the note. For flowers that had several names on a card, a thank you note should be sent to each individual listed on the card.

Pallbearers should each receive a note of gratitude for their important services. Friends and family members who volunteered in any way (driving, providing meals, taking care of arrangements, minding the children, etc.) should each be given a thank you note as well.

The Kind of Thank You Note to Send

It is tradition to hand-write a thank you note to all the individuals who helped during a time of need. However, it is also acceptable to simply only write your signature in a pre-made thank you card.

Clergy, pallbearers and those who were of significant service to you should ideally get a thank you note with a personal message. However it is acceptable to send a pre-made card to those who sent flowers, with a little note stating your appreciation.

What to Say in Thank You Notes

A thank you note can simply state you are thankful for an item received (like flowers), and why that was important to you. For longer notes, include your thanks for the recipient’s time, energy, reliability, etc. Let the person know you were thankful that they shared in the remembrance of a loved one, and how fortunate you feel knowing the departed knew the recipient of the note.

Catherine is a wordsmith covering lifestyle tips on Lifehack. Read full profile

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When we were children, most of us were inundated with reminders of how important it is to say “please” and “thank you” when interacting with others. Though saying these things has become second nature for most of us, there’s a distinct difference between expressing thanks verbally, and doing so on paper.

Why Are Written Thank-You Notes Important?

Written notes are important for several reasons, and the first one is sincerity. As mentioned earlier, saying “thank you” is pretty much an ingrained response for most of us, and it’s probably one of the more common expressions we use on a daily basis. On our way to work, we might thank the person who holds a door open for us, the bus driver who offers us a transfer, the barista who gives us our morning coffee, the receptionist who tells us we have a call on hold, etc. The instant, reactionary “thank you” is second nature, but there’s rarely much thought put into it, and we rarely remember who thanked us for what, and who we may have thanked in turn.

It takes very little effort to thank someone verbally, but everyone knows that it takes time to sit down and put thoughts down on paper. You have to set aside a few minutes of your terribly busy schedule to reach out to someone and let them know that you appreciate something they’ve done (or said, or given you), and in our hectic lives, that’s a rare and treasured gesture. Additionally, unlike a verbal expression of thanks, a note or card can be read over and over again for years, and can be a valued reminder for someone that their actions have made a difference to a person. It’s also important to write these thanks in your own handwriting, as printed materials all look the same and are utterly impersonal.

What You’ll Need

• A paper product: Cards are lovely and nice stationery is splendid, but a standard sheet of note paper will do in a pinch.
• A pen: You want the message to last, and pencil graphite fades and wipes away over time.
• Time: It doesn’t take more than a few minutes to write one of these, but if you’re unaccustomed to writing in a medium that can’t be instantly deleted, you may wish to take some time to put your thoughts in order. Hell, feel free to pre-type the message and then just copy it out by hand.
• Sincerity: It’s important that you write “thank you” notes when you really mean them, and even if you’re writing out of necessity rather than truly intense gratitude (maybe it’s to thank your aunt for a godawful sweater, or someone who interviewed you for a job you know you’re not going to get), it’s important to do so sincerely.

How to Word Things

As mentioned with the “sincerity” comment in the previous section, even if you’re writing a thank-you note because you to, it’s important to put a bit of honest gratitude into the note. There has to have been something about the situation/item/etc. that you’re thanking the person for that you’re truly thankful for. Even if you hate the end result, think of some aspect that you feel you can thank them for honestly.

In the case of the hideous sweater, you could say that you appreciate the effort that it must have taken to create it for you, or perhaps the colours used in it go quite well with your hair.

“Dear Aunt Helga,

I wanted to write to you to thank you for the sweater you gave me for Festivus. The colours you chose are really lovely, and I really appreciate how much time and care you put into making it for me by hand. Looking forward to seeing you at the family BBQ next year.

Warmest wishes,

_____”

Note that you didn’t actually say that you liked the piece, or that you’ll ever wear it, or that you won’t use it to start a bonfire in the near future, but you did acknowledge that she cares about you enough to spend 300 hours knitting you something; we only have so much time here on Earth, so the fact that she made something for you is pretty damned special.

Let’s say that you’d like to thank someone for interviewing you for a job you’ve applied for. It’s good to have some thank-you cards at home for just such an occasion, so before you pop over to that interview, pre-address the envelope with the person’s office address and stamp it too; you can fill out the card at a cafe after the interview and then pop it into the nearest post box. It’ll be delivered the next day, and they’ll be impressed that you put time and effort into thanking them properly. (Hint: that might actually put you in their good books, even if you’ve botched part of the interview.)

“Dear Mr./Ms. ____

Thank you for taking the time to meet with me this morning. I enjoyed our interview, and it was great to learn more about your company. You made me feel at ease during our discussion, and if you feel that I’m a good fit for Pete’s Pork Rind Emporium, I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

Best regards,

____”

Keep it simple, succinct, and neutral; this is not an opportunity for you to suck up and beg for either the job itself, or at least a second interview. You’re expressing appreciation, and if they think you’re a good match, they’ll call you. Trust me on this: I’ve received enough douchey thank-you notes that were so full of sycophantic fawning that I can tell you with complete sincerity that they will not get you the job. Be gracious, and keep your dignity intact.

Final Thoughts

There is really only one excuse for not writing a thank-you note by hand, and that is if your handwriting is truly shameful. Whether it’s illegible or looks like a 3-year-old’s crayon scrawlings, horrific handwriting is indeed grounds for printing a note or card instead of writing it out. In a scenario like this, it’s best to actually mention in the note that you’ve typed it out because your penmanship is so bad, and sign your name with pen at the bottom of the letter. (You can manage that, correct?) Really, there is no excuse for poor handwriting, but in an era when most communication is typed and children are rarely taught penmanship in schools, it’s understandable that you might be out of practice. This very lack of written communication illustrates even more perfectly why a written note is a rare and treasured thing nowadays.

Just as revisiting written love letters brings back fond memories for the recipient, re-reading thank you cards rekindles a sense of appreciation and warmth. You don’t need a special occasion to write an appreciative note to someone either; a quick letter to your partner or spouse thanking them for making you breakfast is sure to inspire a smile, and leaving a card for your favourite waitress or barista to thank them for being awesome might totally brighten their day. Know that a small gesture such as this can indeed have far-reaching repercussions, especially since those who receive thank-you notes often turn around and send them to others in turn, and your actions could have far greater impact than you can imagine.

A Guide to Writing a Memorable Thank-You Note

Sending a thank-you letter after an interview might seem old-fashioned, but it’s just as important to write one as ever. One survey from TopResume showed that 68 percent of hiring managers say that a candidate’s decision to include or not include a thank-you note after an interview affects their final hiring decision. But while sending a thank-you note has become expected, it’s not enough to simply send a note that says “Thanks for chatting with me” — you need to put some thought into it. In this guide, we’ll show you how to write a thank-you note that will impress interviewers and increase your odds of getting a job offer.

When to Write a Thank-You Letter

Writing a thank-you note to your interviewers shows that you are gracious, humble and thoughtful — all important qualities for potential new hires to possess. That’s why you should write a thank-you letter after every interview within 24 hours . You don’t want to risk having recruiters or hiring managers think that you’re cocky, ungrateful or absentminded.

Who to Write a Thank-You Letter to

In general, it’s a good idea to share a thank-you note with everybody you interviewed with individually, from recruiter to hiring manager to potential colleague. If you don’t already have their contact info, request it from your main point of contact throughout the hiring process (likely the recruiter), explaining that you’d like to thank them for taking the time to speak with you. If you had a panel interview, you might want to save your time by sending one email to the main interviewer with everybody else CC’d.

If you spoke to many different people — say, you presented to a room of 10 or more — it’s probably not practical, or a good use of your time, to include each and every one of them. In this case, you can follow the same procedure you would in a panel interview: Send one note to the main interviewer with several of the key players CC’d.

Formatting Tips & Tricks

There are an infinite number of ways you can write a thank-you letter. And while there’s no one right way to do it, there are a few tips and tricks you can keep in mind while drafting your note.

Email vs. Handwritten

Handwritten letters have a certain charm, but in most cases, a thank-you email is the best choice. Why? For one, an emailed thank-you can arrive instantaneously, while a postmarked note can take days to arrive. For another, handwritten letters might feel like a bit much. So when in doubt, send an email. Exceptions could occur if a) you’re close enough that you can simply drop off a handwritten letter, b) you’re applying to a very traditional or old-school organization and c) if you have a prior relationship with an interviewer (say, if they were your former coworker at a previous job).

Don’t feel pressured to send a five-paragraph essay — thank-yous should be short and sweet. Just as you don’t want to spend too much time writing one, your interviewers don’t want to spend too much time reading one. After all, they’ve got their own jobs to stay on top of. Make your thank-you letter long enough to cover everything you need to say, but short enough that it only ends up being a few sentences long.

When it comes to writing thank-you letters, professionalism is the name of the game. Avoid slang, typos, excessive exclamation points, emojis, etc. But you don’t need to sound so formal that you come off as stiff. Opt for clear, concise language, not the longest word you can find in the thesaurus.

Thank-You Letter Template

According to Glassdoor contributor Caroline Gray , every thank-you letter should express gratitude for your interviewer’s time, enthusiasm for the role and appreciation for learning more about the opportunity and company. The following template does all three — read on to see it in full and learn more about each component.

Dear [Interviewer’s Name],

Thank you so much for taking the time to talk with me [today/yesterday]. I loved getting to hear about [interesting thing you learned from this person], and was especially impressed by [quality or trait of the company or team that made you even more eager to work there]. Our conversation reinforced my excitement to join [company] and help you all [achievement you would support in this role]. I look forward to hopefully working together in the future.

• Intro: Avoid a generic term like “to whom it may concern,” or something overly formal like “To the attention of Mr. So-and-So.” Using “Dear” plus the person’s first name works just fine.
• Thank Them: Show your interviewers that you’re considerate and appreciative by thanking them for taking the time to get to know you and educate you about the role.
• Get Specific: Mention something in particular that you really enjoyed learning about in your conversation, such as the go-to-market plan for their newest product or their insider perspective on what kind of person thrives at their company.
• Compliment Them: A little flattery never hurts, as long as it’s not excessive. Bring up one thing about the company or the team that you were really impressed by, such as the team’s infectiously positive attitude or the company’s dedication to community service.

• Highlight Your Eagerness: Let your interviewer know that you’re excited about the opportunity, and also show how you would add value to the team.

• Close the Letter: End with a farewell line — such as “best,” “cheers,” “sincerely” or another professional, yet approachable choice — and your full name.

Now, you’ve got everything you need to write an amazing thank-you letter — so get writing, and good luck!

Last Updated April 16, 2020

Many people balk at the idea of thank you notes because they believe that they are too cumbersome to write. However, if someone has gone out of their way to help or give you a gift, then they deserve a thank you note at the very least. Something as simple as sending a handwritten note can have a lasting impression. People are always willing to help those that are grateful. Therefore, take the time to write a thank you note. All you need to do is keep it simple and gracious.

The First Step: Pick the Right Stationary

The average person scrawls out a note on a basic piece of paper and stuffs it in an envelope. Yes, this is a better than no thank you note, but one should take a little more pride in their work. Therefore, it will be better to find nice and appropriate stationary to make a thank you note even lovelier than before. Stationary is easy to customize by adding a name or initials to the top. The design does not have to be elaborate, and it can even be done at home with a stamp. The key is to keep it looking unique without too much effort. Of course, one can always buy pre-made or blank thank you notes from any store. Pick a design that is cute and fits the occasion from wedding to baby. This is one way to make a thank you card even more special.

When to Send a Thank You Note

• When someone does something nice for you, whether you receive a card or a gift or after an job interview being thankful and expressing gratitude is very important. You will be faced down with this task several different times in your life. Here are a few occasions of when a thank you note or letter is expected:
• After receiving wedding, bridal or baby shower gifts
• After receiving birthday cards and gifts
• For holiday gifts (Christmas or Chanukah)
• After a job interview
• When you were the guest of honor at a dinner party
• After someone does a favor for you
• After a profitable business deal is made
• To your teacher, pastor, mother, father, mentor or hospital staff

Begin with a “Hello”

• Now, the stationary is picked out, and it is time to begin writing the note itself. It is best to begin the note with a greeting followed by the “thank you for…” This will keep the note succinct and to the point without gushing. You will then need to explain why you liked the gift or needed their help. Specifics are important because it shows that you are not just sending out generic thank you notes. It also gives the thank you note recipient a reason why you enjoyed their help or gift so much.
• You can begin this section with something as elaborate as “my gratitude will never be sufficient, but thank you…,” or something simpler. You are not writing a thesis, and it does not have to be more than a couple of sentences. The point is to show them you appreciate the thought more than anything.

Adding More Detail

It is always nice to add a little more detail to a note such as a “I hope to see you again soon” or “it was lovely to see you enjoying yourself at our wedding.” It can even be something goofy like a compliment on their new job or a comment on a cool blog post. The added detail should express a sentiment that lets them know you are thinking of them.

The End

If you are unsure how to end the note, then you can then thank them again for the sake of it before ending the note. Close the note with an appropriate greeting such as: sincerely, best, thanks, love or see you soon. Pick the closing that best suits your relationship and feelings. Do not forget to sign your name at the bottom too, and voila! You have accomplished the lost art of writing a thank you note. The process is not as painful or hard as other people will have you think.

Send it Out Soon!

One should always send out a thank you note within a month of an event or gift. The sooner it is sent out than the more it will be appreciated. Of course, it is always better to send a thank you not than not at all. Therefore, it is fine if you are not able to get out the hundreds you need to write until a later date. People just want acknowledgement, and a thank you note is one of the best ways to do it.

A devoted family physician is dedicated, devoted and caring. At times, it’s possible to take your family doctor for granted, especially during times of stress. This is why it’s all the more important to take the time to compose a thoughtful, intelligent and well-written thank you note to express your thankfulness. Indeed, the family doctor is so often left out of the equation, that just the simple act of writing a thank you note, can make them feel appreciated, and make their day. Mention any particular situations which are the reason for your gratitude, no matter how small they may seem to you, they might may your physician feel appreciated.

Table of Contents

Sample Note

Dear Doctor Drake,

We hope this letter finds you in good spirits. My husband and I decided to write you personally, to extend our gratitude with regards to the amazing up turn in Quincy’s health. He’s an amazing dog, and has been with us since we first married, 15 years ago. So, when Quincy had that health scare, naturally we were frightened. Fortunately, you and your crew were on top of things, and Quincy is right here beside me now, wagging his tail.

Because of all of the time and thought you spent on Quincy’s case, we have our boy here. We plan on taking him out to the park this weekend, play some ball, have a picnic and just lay around, taking in the sun. After all, Quincy loves the park, and as we don’t know how much time we have left with him, we’re going to enjoy every moment. We also purchased his favorite food, which he’s enjoying.

After all the help you’ve given us, we truly hope that you are doing well. We spoke with your receptionist, and learned that you were about to venture into opening another branch. Of course, we wish you all the best in your endeavors, and will help to speak the word on social media when that happens.

As always, thank you so much for giving us these few, extra moments with Quincy. Of course, we’ll continue to come and monitored via testing, but so far, so good. This has also brought me and my husband closer together, we seem to have renewed our bond over this situation, which is a good thing for all concerned. Please let us know if you require anything, we’re indebted to you.

Thank you so much

With Warmth and Appreciation,
Shelby C.

Show Your Gratitude! Here’s How to Write a Thank You to Your Employer for a Raise

Ho! Ho! Ho! December is officially here and the holidays are within sight! During the season of giving, many employers will gift employees with well-deserved raises and bonuses. For some, these raises and bonuses are expected, and for others, an unexpected holiday surprise! Regardless, take time to express your gratitude for a raise or bonus with a hand-written thank you. It shows that you care and don’t take the recognition for granted. With that being said, here’s how to write a thank you to your employer for a raise or bonus.

Handwrite it!

In the age of computer word processing and social media, there are many new ways we can say thank you. However, these new ways still can’t replace the craft of a handwritten thank you . Handwriting is the oldest and most personable element of scribe you can produce. It’s a reflection of your thoughts carefully etched to be read by the recipient. So take the time and hand write your thank you in pen (blue or black ink) on nice notepaper or a card. After all, your employer took the time to consider you for raise or bonus, you should take the time to express your gratitude.

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Don’t Be a Brown-Noser!

Of course, you want to show your appreciation for the raise, but don’t go overboard. The best way to do that is to be short and concise in your thank you note. No matter if the raise or bonus was expected, state your gratitude and keep the thank-you note business-related. Don’t ramble on about how much you admire your boss or talk about how you’re going to take a lavish vacation with the money. Your boss doesn’t need to know that. Simply get to the point.

Here’s how to write a thank you the right way:

Dear [ Boss’ First Name ],

Thank you for recognizing my efforts throughout this year with the recent raise.

It was a pleasant surprise to receive before the holidays.

I look forward to continued success in the new year for the company.

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy holiday season!

As you can see, this is a short yet concise note with a personable touch in the last sentence.

If you want to say a little more without saying too much, here’s how to write a thank-you for that instance:

Dear, [ Boss’ First Name ]

I write you this note in thanks for the raise I was rewarded.

It’s satisfying to know management is confident in my abilities to provide continuous value to the company.

I’m excited to begin next year and look forward to driving toward an even more successful year at [ Company Name ].

Once again, thank you and happy holidays!

This one was a bit longer but still right to the point without too much flattery.

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Final Notes

There are countless ways to say thank but try to avoid the easy way out with a social media or email thank you. Put these how to write a thank you tips into practice and you’ll be on your way to a memorable impression with your company’s management team!

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Thank you notes are a polite way to extend gratitude to someone for a variety of reasons. Professional thank you notes are appropriate for occasions like completing a job interview, meeting with a new business contact, celebrating long working relationships or receiving a gift. While it’s not required to send thank you notes in professional situations, taking this extra step can help leave people with a positive impression.

Here are some tips and an example to help you craft a thank you note that will help build better relationships and boost your career.

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Why are thank you notes important?

There are three primary reasons you should send thank you messages to other professionals:

It’s common courtesy. Sending a thank you note is proper etiquette. While people may not always expect it, receiving a thoughtful message makes new contacts feel valued and can strengthen your working relationships.

It shows professionalism. Taking a few moments to express your gratitude to new colleagues, clients or business contacts communicates respect. It also shows your ability to be polite, attentive and that you know how to conduct yourself in professional relationships.

It will help people remember you. A well-written, timely thank you gives you the chance to make a lasting impression. Sending a thoughtful message—especially one that recalls specific details or points of conversation—ensures you won’t be forgotten.

It is healthy to have a gratitude-oriented mindset. Practicing gratitude can help you be happier overall, often leading to increased performance at work and overall success toward your goals.

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When should I send a thank you note?

It’s best to send thank you messages as soon as possible. If you’re writing to thank someone for their time during a meeting, for example, its best to send the note immediately after you’ve finished the meeting. If possible, try to send the thank you email on the same day. Otherwise, aim to send it the day following your meeting.

By sending your note immediately, you’re showing the recipient that you’re enthusiastic about the topics you discussed and you’re ready to move on to the next step. Additionally, by sending your message right away, you can make sure you’re on the recipient’s mind as they make their decision—which is especially important if you’re sending a thank you note after a job interview.

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How should I send a thank you note?

Some people prefer to send handwritten thank you cards. While a written note is much more personal, it can take several days for a card to arrive by mail. Unless you plan to deliver the note directly to the receptionist or front desk within 24 hours of your meeting, you may want to email your thank you note instead.

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Who should receive thank you notes?

The recipients of your thank you messages will vary depending on the situation. A good rule is to always send your thank you note directly to the person with whom you’ve developed a relationship. For example, if an agency your organization contracts recently sent a gift to your team and the card was signed by the account manager, you would send a thank you note to the account manager.

However, in a situation where you’ve interacted with multiple people, it’s best to send a personalized thank you message to each individual. For example, if you recently completed a meeting with a new client and you met with the CEO, CMO and marketing director, you’d want to send a separate note to each of these professionals.

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How to write a thank you note

It’s crucial you make the most of your thank you message by communicating the right information. Your email should show your gratitude and touch on relevant information critical to the relationship. For example, if you’re sending a thank you letter after a job interview, you’d want to highlight key skills and abilities that make you the best fit for the opportunity.

Here are five steps to help you compose a memorable, friendly and professional thank you note.

Start by sharing your gratitude. Begin your message with an opener like “Dear Candace,” or “Hello Candace.” Following the greeting, explain why you are writing with an expression of your gratitude. For example:

“Dear Candace,
Thank you so much for taking the time to visit our office yesterday afternoon.”

Include specific details from the conversation. Sharing details from your interactions with someone demonstrates active listening skills and conveys interest. It can also help a new contact remember you. This can be helpful if they talked with several people within a short period of time, such as if you’re sending a thank you note to someone you met during a conference or trade show. To make this easier, take a few moments to jot down some notes as soon as the conversation is over. This way, you won’t forget any meaningful aspects of the discussion. For example:

“Learning about how your team is working to resolve our scheduling issues was immensely helpful as we plan on working with more clients in the new year.”

Share why you’re excited about the opportunity. Although you likely shared why you want to establish a relationship during your initial conversation, it’s helpful to reiterate your enthusiasm in your thank you note. This shows the recipient you’re serious about developing a working relationship and want to continue your communication. For example:

“We are thrilled at the prospect of working more with you all on projects in the future, and hope to learn more about process efficiency from you as we grow.”

Proofread your message. Take a few minutes to review your thank you notes for any spelling, grammar or syntax mistakes. A message that’s free of errors shows you’re professional and detail-oriented.

End with a polite closing. Finally, end your thank you note with well wishes and a professional signature. If there are any key takeaways or next steps, include them in your closing statement. Remember, keeping it brief but impactful is the best way to ensure it is read completely. For example:

“We wish you safe travels as you head home and will follow up about our action items early next week.

Handwritten notes are like sending a hug through the mail. They have personality and character, attributes a computer screen will never have. Let me show you why, when, and how to write a thank-you note.

Need some quick advice? Here are the nine steps to write a thank-you note. Read on for a thorough guide!

How to Write a Thank You Note

1. Use nice paper or a card.
2. Find a pen with ink that doesn’t bleed or smear.
3. Begin, “Dear __________,” (insert person’s name).
4. In the first sentence say, “Thank you,” and what you are thankful for.
5. Write at least one sentence of appreciation for the act of kindness or gift.
6. Say something nice about the giver.
7. Write your closer, such as Regards, Sincerely, All my best.
8. Sign your name.
9. You don’t have to put your address on the inside of the card.

Those are the quick steps. Now read on for a longer guide.

Why You Should Write a Thank You Note

It is easier and quicker to send a text message, an email, or a voice message to say “thank you.” However, if the purpose of the thank-you message is to convey your deepest, most sincere gratitude, taking the time to carefully write a message by your own hand, and not your secretary’s hand, will mean more to the recipient than an instant media message.

When was the last time you wrote a thank-you note? A real thank-you note on a piece of paper that goes into an envelope with an address written on it and a stamp stuck in the upper right-hand corner?

Too long, right?! Let’s write one together today.

What Is a Thank You Note?

The key word is brief. We are not talking about the changes in currency prices or the bird call of a painted bunting here. If you want to write about your summer activities or about how many litter boxes you have, write a letter instead.

Joe Bunting wrote an article about writing letters, which you can read here: What Letter Writing Can Teach Us. But a thank-you note is not a full letter.

Why You Should Send a Thank You Note:

1. You should send a thank-you note because my mother said it is a good idea.
2. To connect with another person.
3. Send a thank-you note because you want to say thank you.
4. The biggest reason to send a thank-you note is because you are a kind, considerate person. And you always want your friends and acquaintances to know how much you appreciate them.
5. Because you are thoughtful.

There is simply nothing as personal as a handwritten note. In a stack of bills and flyers, it’s a treasure in a sealed packet, full of promise and potential. —Dan Post Senning

Supply List for Thank You Notes

Before you begin, make sure you have all of the following on hand:

1. Notecards or stationery.
2. Stamps
3. An address.
4. Pens.
5. A few minutes of your time.

9 Steps to Write a Thank You Note

Writing a thank-you note might sound intimidating, but it is actually quite simple when you follow these nine steps.

1. Use nice paper or a card.

What is nice? Hmmm . . . a standard piece of printer paper, eight and a half by eleven, and an envelope are nice and acceptable. Personal stationery or a plain set of notecards is also nice.

What is not nice paper? A piece of paper ripped out of a notebook with a coffee stain on it, the back of your grocery list, or the back of a power bill would not be considered nice stationery.

2. Use a pen.

Your best choice is one with ink that doesn’t bleed or smear.

3. Begin “Dear __________,” (insert person’s name).

Check the spelling of the person’s name. If Margaret wants to be called Margaret, don’t call her Maggie. At least Maggie is not named after a non-stick spray like my name.

If you are on a first-name basis, call the person by their first name. If you don’t know the person very well, or they are “The Big Cheese” in a company, use Mr., Ms., or use the full name.

Keep the salutation polite and friendly. “Yoh” or “Hey” or “What’s up?” might work with your college roommate, but it is a bit casual for a business or professional thank you note. And don’t “Hey” your great aunt. Address the card “Dear Aunt Margaret,” not “What’s up, Maggie?”

Sigh, I am being a bit bossy. Who am I to tell you what to call your Aunt Margaret?

Only you know your relationship with your dear aunt. Please address the card in the same manner you talk to her. Which I hope is always polite and respectable.

4. The first sentence should have the words “thank you” in it.

And say what you are thankful for. Be specific.

Thank you for the beautiful sweater. Thank you for introducing me to your editor. Thank you for being the best friend I had in grade school. Thank you for being the best mommy in the world. Thank you for cleaning my seven litter boxes. (I can dream. Right?)

5. Write at least one sentence about how much you appreciate the gift.

Thank them for their gift of ten kittens, or tell them how much their act of kindness meant to you. This sentence makes the note more personal.

6. Say something nice about the giver.

For example, tell them you are looking forward to seeing them the next time you are in New Orleans. Or tell them how you wished you lived closer so you could help them shovel their driveway.

7. Write your closer, such as Regards, Sincerely, All my best.

These are all polite and not too informal. “Chow baby” is too informal, and “chow” is actually spelled “ciao.” Don’t use the word “love” unless you actually love the person. Signing an email “xo” might give the recipient the wrong idea.

8. Sign your name.

Use legible handwriting. This is not a prescription; it is a thank you card.

9. You don’t have to put your address on the inside of the card.

Remember, this is not a letter, it is a note. Please put your return address on the envelope. Write clearly.

When someone pleased you whatever by treat, bless, support, help or else you may want to say thanks or show your thoughtfulness of gratitude that your inner side determine. Being thankful is great and appreciate others for anything is just a part of your humble gratitude. But sometimes it get tough to choose right words and put our thoughts on a thank you card. So, here we come with lots of examples of Thank You Card Messages and phrases to help you getting started with writing a great thank you note or card message. These messages are just to inspire or give you support to write your own feelings what you feel for their hospitality or anything which made you pleased. You may edit or rearrange these thank you card messages to your liking so that it could fits your thoughts and carry the perfect gesture to the receiver.

Thank You Card Messages

My hand is writing this message because the bottom of my heart cannot hold a pen. I am very much grateful, from the bottom of my heart.

Thanks for all your great help. I simply couldn’t have done it without you!! Please let me know how I can ever return the favor.

I couldn’t find a card that expressed my gratitude the way I wanted. I need a card that gives you a big hug.

It doesn’t take a whole lot sometimes to make a major statement. Your small act of kindness was enough to let me know just how amazing you are as a person and just how fortunate I am to have you in my life. Thanks!

Just wanting to send you a big thank you for all the good work you so kindly volunteered. Please let me know if there is any way I can return the favor.

How can I say thanks in a way that will express the gratitude I feel. How about a hug?

Only someone with great taste could get me such a cool gift. Your generosity is as great as your sense of style.

I can’t begin to tell you everything that I feel. Just know that your thoughtfulness means so much. Thanks and God bless!

Taking the time to help me was a very nice thing for you to do. I know that you are a person who sacrifices for others without thinking. Thank you.

Above and beyond, more and more everyday That’s what you do for so many, and for that we “Thank You” today!

Thank you for taking the time to share all of that great information with me. Your support, encouragement and advice have been extremely helpful.

Sample Thank You Card Messages

You have been extremely supportive through this difficult time. You may not realize what a blessing you have been. Thanks for your help.

Please accept this card as a big thank you from the bottom of my heart. It was really kind of you to help me with —–. It really means a lot.

It’s the wonderful things that you that help others to be reminded of how blessings can flow through those that God uses. Thank you so much!

Words can’t express the gratitude I feel when I think about what you have done. I’ll just say thanks.

I appreciate all the time you were able to give to help me with —–. It really means a lot!! You’re the best.

That was a really cool way to surprise me. I really like the way you set everything up and made it an awesome time.

If I say “Thank You” a thousand times, that still wouldn’t be enough to make you know how happy I am because of your kindness! Thanks!!

I don’t know how you knew what I wanted. You blew me away with your thoughtfulness and generosity.

You are truly a blessing in my life. I am not sure what I would do without you. Thanks for all you do.

Just wanting to let you know that all the help you offered was invaluable. We really couldn’t have done it without you.

Because of your generosity and support, our fundraising event was a huge success! Thank you so much for your donation.

Short Thank You Messages For Card

I am grateful for you and your generosity.

If you could see my face right now, you’d see a look of gratitude.

I really owe you one for all the help you so kindly volunteered. You’re a legend!

You are so blessed because you constantly do your best to help others. I am so thankful for you!

How did you know what I didn’t even know I wanted? Thank you!

You deserve a bigger thank you than this card. I will remember what you did.

Giving thanks for someone can be summed up in, “May God forever bless you”! Thank you!

I don’t know anything else to say except thank you.

Thank you for a job well done!! You made the whole thing look easy!

I know this is a little late, but the feeling of grateful is still lingering in my heart. Thanks!

I appreciate your generosity. You are one of the most generous people I know.

Thanks for the time and effort you gave to —–. You’re a superstar!

I really enjoyed the time that we shared. You are so hospitable and kind! Thanks

You made me so glad today. Hope you like this special arrangement that’s meant to say a great big, “THANK YOU” to you!

I appreciate the timing of your help. You helped right when I needed it most.

Nowadays, it seems easier to send a thank you email, message or make a phone call but handwritten thank you card messages will express more and meaningful way to show gratitude. Hope you get it well and it’s our deep expectation that this compilation of thank you card messages will give you right ideas for proper appreciation.

How to write a thank you note in three easy steps.

One lesson I learned growing up is how to write a thank you note. Since Mama began teaching me the art of a thank you when I was just a little girl, writing them has always just been a part of life for me. Since we are knee-deep into graduations, showers, and weddings, I thought it would be the perfect time to share three easy tips on how to write thank you notes that I’ve learned through the years.

What to use. While we certainly love monogrammed items in the south, you don’t have to use personalized stationery for a well-written thank you note. Beautiful stationery can be found at your local office supply store that serves a general purpose or you can order more personal stationery online with engraved or printed personalization and envelope niceties. Prices range from a few dollars for a boxed set of general stationery to much higher prices for luxury hand-engraved stationery with all the extras.

When to send. It is best to write and send a thank you note promptly after receiving a gift or some other gesture of kindness. However, there is not an expiration date on writing a thank you note! In this electronic age, you can always send an email or text as a prompt thank you and then follow up with a more personal handwritten thank you note within a few days. Once you get into the practice of writing them, you’ll begin writing and sending thank you notes more regularly.

What to write. A thank you note does not have to be long, but it does have to be personal, thoughtful and meaningful. After the salutation, begin by thanking the giver for the item they gave you, for their time, etc. Then, tell them how you’ll use the item or what you enjoyed about your visit with them. Next, be sure to tell them how much you appreciate them thinking of you. Finally, close your note with a warm closing appropriate for the relationship you have with the recipient of your note. For family and close friends, I use “Love,” while for acquaintances and business contacts, I use, “Best, Sincerely or Warmly.”

Much love,
Robyn xo

Home » Living » How to Write a Thank You Note

Published on: May 27, 2015 / Updated on March 9, 2016

Sending thank you notes after a funeral is a traditional part of funeral etiquette, and it is a kind way to communicate that you appreciate your fellow mourners. You can send any type of thank you notes to express your gratitude for helping plan the funeral, attending the funeral, sending flowers or offering emotional support.

Thank You for Attending the Funeral Wording

Some people choose to send thank you notes to everyone who attended the funeral while others send notes only to those who traveled far or made a big effort to get to the funeral. Wording for this type of funeral thank you note should express how important the person’s presence at the funeral was for the deceased and for you.

Thank You Notes After Funeral to Family Members

If you are sending thank you for attending the funeral notes to family members, you could include more personal information.

• Our entire family appreciates your time and sacrifice. We know it wasn’t easy for you to get to the funeral, but we’re glad you made it a priority.
• It meant a great deal to me and Mom that you came to the funeral. Thanks for being with us.
• Your presence at the funeral was a great comfort to me.
• Your participation and service in the funeral was such a blessing.
• I can’t thank you enough for spending so much time with us at the funeral home. Your presence made it feel more comfortable.

Thank You Notes After Funeral to Coworkers

Thank you note wording for coworkers who attended a funeral can be more general.

• It was good to see you at my dad’s funeral, even under the adverse circumstances.
• Thank you for honoring me and my grandma by attending her funeral. I was pleased to see you.
• We may not know each other well, but your presence at my brother’s funeral showed me how lucky I am to work with someone as thoughtful as you.
• It filled my heart to have my work family join my home family at my husband’s funeral. Thank you for coming.

Thank You for Helping With the Funeral Messages

Anyone who helped plan, arrange, and host the funeral can be thanked for their specific services.

• Thank you for taking the time to help me plan the funeral. I couldn’t have done it without you.
• Your help in directing guests at the funeral took a lot of pressure off me. I really appreciate you volunteering.
• I am so grateful to you for bringing a dish to share after the funeral. This display of community care was beyond expectation.
• Thank you for making this process a little easier for me by helping to arrange the funeral.

Thank You for the Funeral Donation Messages

From cash donations to gifts of food and meals, you can thank others for funeral gifts and donations with a few kind words.

• Thank you for being thoughtful and bringing me a delicious dinner after the funeral. It warmed my heart as much as my stomach.
• The money you donated toward the funeral costs truly alleviated some of my burden. I can never thank you enough for your generosity.
• I am beyond grateful to you for donating the funeral programs. You have given all you grieve a beautiful keepsake.
• Your donation of the church space for the funeral is greatly appreciated.

What to Write in a Sympathy Thank You Card

Some people choose to send thank you for your sympathy cards. You may be able to find thank you cards at stationery stores, or you can order thank you cards specific to a funeral online. In this modern age, it is not unheard of for a person to send their message of thanks as an e-card.

Original Thank You Messages for Sympathy Thank You Cards

This type of thank you card is all about letting someone know how much you appreciate their condolences or sympathy.

• Thank you for your support and thoughtful words in this difficult time. I enjoyed our conversation.
• Your condolences reached me in a moment of despair and lifted me. Thank you for your sympathy.
• I appreciate your sympathy during this difficult time.
• Thank you for thinking of me and reaching out after the funeral.
• Your thoughts and prayers have surely helped me grieve this loss. Thank you.

Popular Types of Messages for Sympathy Thank You Cards

Bereavement verses are often used in condolence letters and cards given to the mourners. You can include special verses, including funeral poems, Bible scripture and other prose to convey your support to those you want to thank. This is especially important when sending a note to a dear friend of the deceased or loved one to whom he shared a connection.

Thank You Notes for Flowers

If you look at examples of thank you notes for flowers, you’ll see the message is dictated by your relationship to the sender. Thank you notes for flowers can incorporate other messages of thanks. You can even let the sender know what you did with the flowers after the funeral, especially if you made them into a keepsake or donated them to a charity.

What to Include in Any Funeral Thank You Note

When sending a note of thanks, it can at times be difficult to express your feelings in a way that truly justifies them. In your note, it is important to mention specifically what you are actually thanking the individual for. To personalize your thanks in this way, not only adds a greater sentiment to the act, but it also adds to the recipient’s feeling that they have supported you through a difficult experience.

Funeral Thank You Note Etiquette Tips

Sending thank you notes after a death is a gesture that can mean so much, not only to the person sending the notes but also to the recipients. The time immediately following a funeral is a time for calm and reflection, and not everyone feels organized enough to contemplate the organization of passing on thanks.

• It is nice, but not necessary, to send a thank you note to each person who attends the funeral.
• Always send thank you notes to those who sent flowers, gifts or donations.
• Try to send thank you notes to those who prepared a meal, ran an errand or offered support in your time of need.
• Consider sending thank you notes to anyone who spoke at or helped with the funeral.
• Putting pen to paper to write a personal thank you card may seem like a chore to most individuals. However, there are healing benefits to sending a thank you card or letter.
• Try to send thank you notes within two weeks after the funeral.
• It’s okay to ask a close friend or family member to help you write these notes.
• If you’re not feeling up to sending cards within two weeks, it’s better to send them late than not at all.

Sending Your Thanks

Acknowledging your appreciation of others is therapeutic for you and the person receiving your words, and may help reinforce bonds of friendship and reciprocate feelings of support. In addition, as you consider what to say in your note, you will revisit the positive responses of friends and family and affirm their efforts to comfort you and others while also paying their respects to the deceased.

Inside: Do you want to help your child write the most thoughtful kid thank you notes for Christmas or birthday presents? This sweet idea will get your kids writing them with a little less whining.

Ahh, c’mon Mama. Do I have to write the thank you notes? Idon’twanttotheyareboring.

Whether it’s for their birthday or the winter holidays, my kids detest writing thank you notes and whine their way through their stack.

Well, no one loves writing thanking notes. They’re time-consuming. They’re pretty boring. And they’re an old-school thing that my mom and Emily Post used to make me do that my eight-year-old-self swore I wouldn’t continue when I was a grown-up.

And yet here I am. Still writing thank you notes. It’s ingrained in me.

And I expect my kids to write thank you notes too.

Why Kids Should Write Thank You Notes

Writing thank-you notes teaches my kids a valuable skill that I still believe in. It puts the emphasis on gratitude. It reminds my kids to focus on the person who gave them the gift, rather than the gift itself.

And there will come a day when they have to pen a hand-written note in life and I don’t want them scratching their heads.

So no matter how old-school it is, we still write thank you notes.

We want our family and friends’ generosity to not go unnoticed or unappreciated and we want them to share in the joy our children received from the gifts they bought, wrapped and fought the holiday crowds for.

I want them to see the priceless expressions of sheer excitement that a soup cooking class brings a five-year-old.

But we don’t send a notecard. We’ve started something a little different for our friends and family that everyone seems to love more than old stationery.

Five Simple Tips to Write the Most Thoughtful Thank You Notes:

1. As kids open their gifts, I take notes in a notebook like this cute Christmas one to help me remember what we all received.

On Christmas morning, I take advantage of our Christmas tradition of opening presents slowly to jot down what each of us received and from whom. It’s so much easier to remember it while we open gifts than a week from now. That way when we go to write our thank you notes, there’s one less thing to be frustrated by.

2. I take pictures of my kids opening their gifts, playing with their gifts, or wearing their gifts. If my child got an experience rather than an item, I remember to take pictures of them enjoying their outing.

For birthday party gifts, I take photos of my birthday kid and their guests so parents receive a picture of their child, not just my kid opening a gift.

3. Print a photo for each note that needs to be written. My family loves getting these thank you notes because they get a snapshot of the moment they may have missed plus an actual real-life photo, rather than just a digital one.

4. Have your child write their thank you note on the back of the photo using a sharpie. The gift giver gets to see their present being enjoyed and if you’re lucky you can capture the sheer surprise or excitement on your kids’ faces in the pictures.

5. To avoid overwhelming my kids, we tend to write five at a time and then take a break. I let my children choose which thank you notes they want to write first because having a choice in the matter tends to minimize the whining.

But even if we’re writing five at a time, my kids try to get away with the bare minimum.

Um, no. “Thanks for the gift” isn’t going to cut it.

Little effort shows little gratitude.

So we have to practice. We have to learn how to write a thank you note.

For my younger kids, we talk through the thank you note ahead of time and brainstorm a few things they can write. For my older kids, they know the recipe for a good thank you note and can be more independent.

Either way, we tend to write our notes at the kitchen table so everyone stays on task and puts in their –ahem– best effort.

“Recipe” for Writing a Good Thank You Note

To help my kids write thank you notes, I teach them this simple format.

You can get this free printable below your kids can have next to them as they write.

They simply choose the most appropriate choice from each box to write.

Dear Grandma, Auntie, Billy,

Thank you for the ….

I love it because… I can’t wait to use it because… I’m so excited about it because… I’m going to spend it on… I can’t wait to go shopping and buy… I really wanted it because…

I miss you. I love you. I’ll see you soon.

OR for birthday gifts from friends: I’ll see you tomorrow. Thank you for coming to my party. I hope you had fun at my party.

Love, From, Sincerely, Your Friend,

Reader Interactions

Comments

Thanks Nicole for sharing!
We were not able to finish our thank you notes during the last two years! I think with your receipe, we will be able to do them even with fun.
I am so thankful!

So glad! Good luck with them this year!

Notes like these don’t seem to be a very common thing here inGermany but I love the idea of putting the focus on the person who gave them the gift, rather than the gift itself. Thanks for sharing, it’s definitely something I want to teach my daughter once she is old enough.

I recently spoke to a large group of Interns at our local Chamber of Commerce event. One of the students asked about the best way to follow up with someone after a networking event. I know you’ll be shocked by my answer (insert sarcasm here), pull out pen and paper and write a follow up thank-you note!

Here’s the synopsis of her Question:

‪Q – I met a few new people at a networking event and would like to send a thank you note to follow up with them. I want to leave a good impression because I would like to work at their business upon graduation or possibly intern. ‬ ‪Do you have a couple of sample thank you notes that you have done in the past that you would not mind sharing? My goal is to get better at writing thank you letters and having a couple quality examples would help. ‬‪- ‬Danielle ‬

A – Yeah. I’m looking for the applause and party horn emojis from my phone to insert here! (I know they’re not for use in a professional environment, but I’m excited about her question and how she’s taking initiative!)

Step 1: Paper is Important

For starters, make sure you have some professional looking notes. Something plain and simple will do the trick. Save anything too ‘frilly’ for personal notes. The quality of your paper is also important. If you choose something really nice, like Crane, it just feels good in your hands and adds to the receiver’s experience. If you have time, click on this link to learn why Crane paper is so amazing.

Step 2: Grab a Good Ink Pen

I personally like to use navy ink, and sometimes I even go for gold ink (but ONLY if the situation is right). Some say the blue ink stands out and is more memorable than basic black. Whichever ink color you choose, make sure the ink flows smoothly, doesn’t smudge, and doesn’t skip.

Step 3: Type It Out First

Now this may sound counterintuitive, but give it a try. We’re used to typing and allowing our thoughts to flow freely. When we immediately start to write out a note – many times we don’t do it because we think, ‘what if I mess up’. By typing out your thoughts, you can cut and paste, reword, and rework your sentences before transferring them by hand to the note. Using this process, I personally get on a roll and end up working on multiple notes in one sitting. Then putting the pen to paper is not so ‘scary’ and it actually turns out to be a fun exercise.

Step 4: Use Their Name

Make sure you use their correct name and write it right. If they go by a nickname or their middle name and you use the wrong name, you’re defeating the purpose of the note, which is to make a connection and build a relationship. Take the time and do your research. If it’s a formal note and you’re addressing a senior executive, I would err on the side of ceremony and address them with the title, Dear Mr. or Ms. Smith. It will show that you value and respect the relationship and the process.

Step 5: Express the Appreciation

Make sure you write in the present tense. Don’t be wishy-washy and say something like, “I just wanted to write to say that…” Be specific and straightforward. Highlight a point of conversation from the previous encounter, or certain skills you’re thankful the person taught you.

Thank you for taking the time to visit with me during the ABC event and sharing information about your company and career with me. (Adding anything specific they mentioned).

Step 6: Explain Why

Be specific, don’t exaggerate, and be sincere with any compliments. And don’t bloviate (I love that word)

You can mention how what they shared with you will be beneficial to you moving forward or how you have already researched or applied what they told you. Make sure to maintain your focus on the person you are writing and on their generosity. This isn’t about you.

I researched your company and love the mission statement. I enjoyed reading about how your company has _____________.

Step 7: Back to The Future

Refer to the past and the future.

I enjoyed meeting you and look forward to seeing you at the next ABC event.

Step 8: Thank Them Again and Sign Off

I literally end my notes with,

Sometimes, I’ll use something less formal such as ‘cheers’, or ‘regards’. It depends on the person, the situation, and the tone of the note. Pick what feels most comfortable, and professional, to you.

Step 9: Make it a Habit

I find my thank-you note writing goes in stages. I’ll be doing really well, then things get busy and I push it aside for ‘later’. If you make it a habit and schedule the time into your calendar on a regular basis, it will become second nature and will help to build your professional network like no other way!

Her question prompted me to get working on that growing list of gratitude I’ve been ‘intending’ to tackle. I recently set a personal goal; 30 notes in 30 days. Are you interested, would you like to join me? Together, lets figure out how to carve out just a few minutes from our day to put pen to paper and show thanks. Hop over to the Facebook page, Twitter, Instagram, Periscope (wherever you want) and put it out there, I’m using the hashtag #30ThanksIn30Days to get the conversation started and to help keep me accountable. So if you see me on any of the social media platforms (or in person) over the next 30 days, please don’t hesitate to ask how it’s going!

Business Thank You Note Template

For those who are looking for a template guide in which to write their business note, please see the full letter below:

Thank you for taking the time to visit with me during the ABC event and sharing information about your company and career with me. (Adding anything specific they mentioned).

I researched your company and love the mission statement. I enjoyed reading about how your company has _____________. I enjoyed meeting you and look forward to seeing you at the next ABC event.

Looking for more great resources and templates? Check out our guide on how to ask for that all critical conference call meeting? Click here for more.

My sister is my best friend. She probably knows how much I admire and appreciate her, because I maul her whenever I see her (and she’s not the affectionate type). She would like me to write her sweet notes on her good days, send inspirational memes on her not-so-good days, and in general intuit her every need. I know this because I read her diary.

You can’t choose your sister, but you can choose to appreciate what you have. Write your sister a thanks note, just for being herself, and surprise her with your heartfelt expression of love. Use these best sister quotes as a starting point for your note or letter.

“She is my sounding board, my confidante, my keeper of secrets – and my best friend.”

One-Liner Sister Notes

• My dearest sister, my strongest supporter, my favourite friend.
• Although I didn’t appreciate you while we were growing up, now I am forever grateful that you’re in my life.
• We share parents, childhood memories, a sacred bond.

• I smile because you’re my sister. I laugh because you can’t do anything about it.
• Hi Sis, I just want you to know how special you are to me and what you mean to me. I haven’t told you how important you are to me; I want you to know how blessed I am to have you in my life.
• Sisters are different flowers from the same garden.
• A sister is worth a thousand friends.

• There’s no better friend than a sister.
• My sister is the first one I think of to share the good news and the sad.
• I’ll never forget the moment when I was five years old and you protected me, and I realized what true love means. Thank you for always looking out for me.
• Side by side or miles apart, sisters will always be connected by heart.
• Sisters are for sharing laughter and wiping tears.
• How do people make it through life without having a sister?
• Comfort is knowing your sister is there when you need her most.
• My dear sister, it is time I shared with you my secrets — I secretly adore you, despite all evidence to the contrary.

I’ve known every love possible, but as the years stretched out, the love I longed for the most is the one I shared with my sister.

Sister Quotes

• “I’ve known every love possible, but as the years stretched out, the love I longed for the most is the one I shared with my sister.” — Josephine Angelini
• “Your sister is your teacher, your defense attorney, your personal press agent, even your shrink. Some days, she’s the reason you wish you were an only child.” – Barbara Alpert
• “A sister is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost.” — Marion C. Garretty
• “A sister can be seen as someone who is both ourselves and very much not ourselves – a special kind of double.” — Toni Morrison

Your sister has undoubtedly helped you learn essential lessons in life, defended you from peers, sung your praises and declared your awesomeness to others, and has given you great advice (solicited or not) through the years. No matter how great your relationship, there are days you have likely wished she were never born. And that is perfectly normal, even after the age of five.

Related

I like to climb mountains, read Nietzsche, and explore the West Coast. I have a BA from York University and yet on this site I sometimes spell like an American (know your audience). Thank you. Thank you very much.

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About Me

Hi, I’m Billie. I love to create content and share everything I know (doesn’t take long – ha). This is my Fun Project: this site exists as a public service for people everywhere, especially those who appreciate the value and effect of handwritten letters of gratitude on communities and personal relationships (and strong relationships ultimately compose healthy communities).

You did everything right to prepare for the job interview. You researched your potential employer, read and re-read the job description and practiced answers to possible questions. Your work was rewarded — you nailed the meeting. Now, you’re just waiting for the call to hear if you got the job.

Hold on a minute — did you remember to write a thank you note to the interviewer?

Thank you notes are not just something you learned about in elementary school. They’re still an important part of the job interview process.

In fact, one survey showed that 22 percent of employers are less likely to offer a job to interviewees who skip the thank you step.

You’re doing more than being grateful for the meeting. The extra step reinforces your interest in the position – over 55 percent of employers think sending a note shows a potential hire is serious about the job.

Convinced? Here are eight tips that’ll help you write a knockout note:

1. Send an Email and a Card

It takes a little more time, but send both an email and a snail-mail card. A thank you email after an interview will reach your target quickly, which is essential if the decision has a quick turnaround time.

A mailed note sets you apart from the crowd. Only about 20 percent of job candidates follow through with this step.

Use a traditional fold-over note card with a nondescript front. You don’t want to be remembered for being goofy or cutesy.

2. Practice Makes Perfect

Think about what you want to say ahead of time and then write drafts for both the email and note card. This is the time to make mistakes and scribble out words. Final copies should be perfect. The two messages will be similar, but they shouldn’t be identical.

A special tip for the email: Don’t type in the recipient’s address until you’re sure the email is perfect. That way you won’t accidentally send one that’s incomplete or riddled with mistakes.

3. Write Right

Thank you messages don’t have to be long, but they must be error-free. Proofread, proofread, proofread — then proofread again.

It might help to read it out loud, too, and if there is time, ask someone else to check it.

If you let grammatical or spelling mistakes slip by, your interviewer is justified in doubting your abilities. Use this opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills, especially if the job calls for written contact with co-workers and clients.

4. Reference Specific Details From the Interview

In addition to thanking your interviewer, your thank you note should also reference the interview. You’re trying to separate yourself from the masses, remember?

Mention a topic that came up during the discussion, fix any mistakes or omissions and emphasize your interest in the job.

This means you can’t write the note ahead of time, but you can craft a sample thank you note for after your interview. Nail your formatting and the simplicity while still getting your point across — just don’t send the note.

5. Keep It Short and Sweet

Keep the thank you letter after the job interview short. Take some time to reflect on the meeting. The notes you took will refresh your memory.

Make sure you mention the exact name of the position. This prevents confusion if multiple jobs are open at the company.

Use the first paragraph to say thank you for the interview. Express appreciation for the individual’s time and attention. This person carved out time in a busy day just for you. Acknowledge anything special the interviewer did to put you at ease.

In the second paragraph, briefly highlight your best moments. Be specific. Make yourself memorable among the job candidates. Remind the interviewer why you’re right for the position.

Did you walk out of the interview thinking you could have done better? Add another section if a comment needs clarification or if you omitted information, like where to find your portfolio online. Finish by restating your interest in the position.

Be professional throughout the note. You can show enthusiasm without gushing.

6. Get It Sent off Soon

Send the email soon after the interview, but don’t rush the writing process. Mail the card within 24 hours. Procrastinating dulls the effect and may miss the hiring deadline.

7. Send a Note to Everyone You Interviewed With

If you met with multiple interviewers, you need to write multiple notes. All participants deserve a personal thank you for their time. Make sure you write down each name and job title, or, better yet, collect business cards. If you forget this step — you’re probably a little nervous, after all — go to the company’s website and look people up.

Do not simply copy the same note over and over. Personalize them. Mention a remark each interviewer added to the conversation. This way, you make individual connections with everyone who is going to judge you. Also, if the interviewers happen to share the notes, you’ll look better if they’re not carbon copies.

8. Handwrite Your Card

In this age of computers, it’s easy to type up a note to send out — and that’s great. Handwriting, however, is more personal because it takes more time.

That’s the message you want to send: The interview was so important to me that I took the time to find an actual pen.

If your handwriting is illegible, though, type away.

Even if you’ve decided you don’t want the job, send a thank you note. You’re not selling yourself for the position. You’re being polite. This makes a good impression, which might come in handy. Ask the interviewer to keep you in mind for other openings.

After you walk out of an interview, take a few minutes to write an interview thank you email and note. It won’t hurt a bit, and it might be the finishing touch that clinches you the job.

How to write a thank you letter

1. Start by greeting the recipient

You thank you note should always begin with a greeting. Depending on your relationship with the recipient, you can choose the best salutation. If the thank you note is meant for some you share with a formal relationship, make sure you write the full name if you know the person or you are somehow close you can only use the first name.

Ensure that you have the correct spelling for the recipient’s name.

1. Express your thanks

Start with thank you; this is the most important component of this letter.

1. Add the reason

The reason behind your thank you note is the good deed or service you have received from someone. If the thank you note is about a gift, you should write a message of gratitude showing your appreciation. You can tell the person how you intend to display or use the gift; this will show that your appreciation is sincere. If the gift was in form of cash, you can describe how you plan to spend it.

For example:

Thank you for the briefcase, I must say you know my taste. It makes me look so professional, I am forever grateful.

If you are thanking someone for a good deed or any service, ensure that you include thank you with the specific act or service you were offered.

For example:

Thank you so much for being at the hospital, you are a genuine friend and I am lucky to have you.

1. Looking forward statement

If you have a personal relationship with the recipient, it is good to mention that you look forward to seeing them or you hope that you will be in touch with them soon. This statement is very important as it brings in the aspect of friendship in the letter and its effect is that the recipient will know that you think about them and your relationship means a lot to you.

For example:

I look forward to seeing you in the get-together party and catch some drinks with you.

1. Restate your thanks

Add some details and thank the recipient differently.

For example:

Again, thank you for your kindness; I am grateful you showed up.

1. End with your regards

You should sign off your thank you note. For formal relationships, you can use Best Regards or sincerely. For closer relationships, your sign off can be more personal such as “Yours Truly” or “With Love.”

Writing Thank You Notes Well

Thank you notes are important in almost every situation especially when there is something good associated with it. It is your birthday and someone throws a party for you, gives you a gift or abandons his/her busy schedule just to be with you, such a person deserves appreciation form you. There is always that moment when someone gets out of their way just to stand for you, you can only repay this by acknowledging that act. Almost every action, event or occasion deserves an appreciation. There is no better way to do it than just a simple short and sweet thank you note.

We always get a feeling of satisfaction when our actions are noticed especially when they are good deeds for people. Having the skills of writing a good thank you note is paramount. This guide, therefore, provides all you need to know about thank you notes. All you need to do is follow. We have provided samples that will help in developing a thank you note to show your sincere gratitude.

Using thank you letter format

The following is a general thank you note format/template

Contact information: For a printed thank you letter, your contact information should be the first thing on the letter, just above the salutation. For an email thank you note, you contact information is the last thing, after the signature.

Salutation : Dear Name of recipient

Depending on your relationship with the recipient, you can either use the last name or the full name.

• Paragraph one:The primary purpose of this paragraph is to mention that you are writing to thank the recipient for the act they did that deserves your appreciation. In this paragraph, you can still come up with another sentence that reiterates your appreciation.

For example:

You can mention that you understand how busy they are, and you are very grateful for the fact that they took off from their busy schedule just to be there for you.

This paragraph should carry a warm and expressive tone but make sure that it doesn’t go overboard with unwarranted praises and unnecessary thank you. Your goal here is to make the recipient feel that the appreciation is genuine.

• Paragraph two:This paragraph builds on the first one by explaining to the recipient the reason behind your gratefulness which is the impact of their action to you or how you intend to use what they gave you. This paragraph should be specific to the recipient so that it does look just like any other thank you note that you have sent to many others.
• Paragraph Three:This paragraph is optional. Its main purpose is to include your looking forward statement especially if you have a close relationship with the recipient. You can also use this paragraph to mention the offer you want to give them in return. You can also choose to make the recipient valued by stating how you look forward to seeing them soon. Whatever you write in this paragraph should be based on the nature of your relationship. Ideally, the core purpose of this paragraph is to open the door for future engagements. Have your closing paragraph which should be short and simple reiterating your appreciation.

Sign off:

Some thank you card ideas

The type of card you choose is also very important in driving the message home.

These are some of the ideas you can consider when choosing the perfect card for your thank you letter.

Option one: You can use a physical thank you card with the simple phrase “Thank You” on its front.

Option two: You can choose to personalize your note by using stationery with your personal design or name. On this, you can handwrite your thank you note. Handwritten thank you notes are the best since they have an element of intimacy.

Option three: You can opt to use the online library of thank you cards. This is basically using an online tool to design a card and type in the details you want. You can then send it via email. There are a number of sites offering free online cards such as Punchbowl and Ecards.

Some of Thank You Letters Examples

Sample thank you note for a gift

Thank you for sending flowers on my birthday. How did you know I love tiger lilies? This was such a pleasant surprise. Thank you so much for keeping my special day in mind! I will try my best to ensure that I keep them healthy and radiant so that you can see them when you visit again.

by Staff Author · Published March 22, 2019 · Updated August 7, 2020

Picture this scene… You were just given a scholarship for college! You are excited and maybe even relieved. You think to yourself, “Yes! finally, this long, cruel process is finally over!” Well, not exactly…You have one final step to complete. The scholarship thank you letter!

If you are the recipient of a scholarship, it’s a good idea to write a thank you letter to your scholarship donor. Although this isn’t a requirement, writing a thank you letter is a great way to acknowledge the donor and express how much you appreciate the scholarship. If you got a gift would you thank the person who gave it? Of course, you would! Think about it this way…thanks to the scholarship you just received, you will be in (slightly) less debt after you finish school.

In your letter, you’ll want to express your enthusiasm and appreciation for receiving the scholarship. Not only does a letter express graciousness, but it also expresses professionalism.

Scholarship committees and donors really appreciate knowing how the award has made a difference in your life. Your letter will encourage the scholarship provider to continue supporting students like you in the future.

It’s appropriate to either write your letter by hand or type it on a computer. If you are going to write your letter, then make sure your handwriting is legible. Also, be sure to use quality paper. If your handwriting is messy, then we suggest typing it up on a computer.

Your letter doesn’t have to be long to get your point across. It shouldn’t be longer than a few paragraphs.

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Before sending your letter, make sure you review it several times. It’s a good idea to ask a family member to go over it as well. Your letter should not contain any typos and/or grammatical errors.

Here is an example you can use as a template on how to write a scholarship thank you letter.

Scholarship Thank You Letter Example: (in green italics font!)

Dr. Lyons, Beyond Wellness Chiropractic Center

5035 W WT Harris Blvd A

As a recipient of the 2018-2019 “Spread the Word on Safety” Scholarship, I wanted to thank you for awarding me this scholarship. I was very excited to learn that I have been selected as the winner of the scholarship. I am appreciative of your support of my education.

I am currently in the junior year of my bachelor’s degree at the University of North Carolina. I am majoring in biology. I intend to finish my studies in 2020. After finishing my undergraduate studies, I plan to go to physical therapy school. Currently, I am shadowing a physical therapist at UNC Medical Center. Thanks to you, I am one step closer to reaching my education and career goals.

I work every day as a nanny to help pay for my education. I also waitress on the weekends. Because of this scholarship, I will be able to focus more on my studies and reduce the number of hours I work per week.

Thank you again for your investment in students like myself and in our education. By awarding me the “Spread the Word on Safety” Scholarship, you are allowing me to focus on the most important aspect of school, learning. I hope that one day I will also be able to help a student achieve their goals, like you’ve helped me. Continuing my studies wouldn’t be possible without generous support from scholarship sponsors like yourself. Thank you for making this possible.

[Add your signature]

555 Pinelodge Road

To sum things up: Sending a scholarship thank you letter to the donor expresses a lot about you. It shows that you are humble, gracious and professional. It shows that you truly appreciate the donor’s investment in your education. The letter doesn’t have to take long to write, and it can encourage the scholarship provider to continue giving the award in the future. In short, it’s a nice, simple gesture that can go a long way to spreading some good in this world. Now go out there and get started on those thank you letters!

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