How to Write a Thank-You Note to Your Boss

You may not be lucky enough to always see eye-to-eye with your boss, but most likely there will be times when you owe them a thank you.
Use this underused communication to say "thank you" in a personal way. It will be remembered and appreciated.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Etiquette Books
• Personalized Stationery
• Stationery
• Writing Pens

1. Choose letterhead or personal stationery. It can be monogrammed or not.

2. Address the note using the accepted names you use in the office. Do you address your boss or manager as Ms., or do you use her first name?

3. Make your note short, succinct and sincere.

4. Spell out why you're thanking your boss. For example, "I really appreciate your confidence and support during this project," or "Your mentoring has meant so much to me."

5. Write a sentence or two to elaborate: "Your taking time to help has made my career so much smoother."

6. Sign it with enough informality to express your regard, but not too much. Appropriate closings include "thanks again," "gratefully" and "best."

7. Sign it with your first name if you've used the recipient's first name, or your title if you've employed that method.

Tips & Warnings

• Handwritten notes are just fine in this situation.
• Put the note on your boss's desk or in a work mailbox. The U.S. mail is an option, too, but mark it "personal" so no one else opens it.
• If your boss doesn't mention it, don't bring it up. Perhaps there's a bit of shyness.
• Special notes call for handwriting; e-mail does not suffice.