How to write a great thank you note

You will learn how to write a great thank you note that will be remembered by the recipient if you follow these simple instructions.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Stationery (Paper & envelopes)
• Stamp(s)
• Pen (Do NOT use pencil)

1. In the far lefthand top corner, write, "Dear [Recipient Name]," (do not use quotation marks)

2. The first thing you want to do is thank them for the specific gift or thing that they did.
   example 1 : Thank you so much for beautiful pink baby blanket for Sophie.
   example 2 : Thank you so much for taking my grandmother to the doctor on Tuesday morning

3. Think about how the gift or thing they did will be or was special to you. Try to say at least 2 things about the gift or the event.
   example 1: Sophie will be snug as a bug in it and she will enjoy looking at all the animals on it while drifting to sleep!
   example 2: You really helped me out when I was in jam that day. I never would have been able to pick Jason up from school and make Grandma's appointment at the same time.

4. Reiterate how kind or thoughtful the person was.
   
   example 1: It was so thoughtful of you. We also appreciate the visit as well.
   example 2: You are a great friend and I appreciate how you were there for me.

5. Sign off by saying "Thanks again" and sign your name. Name is signed in the far righthand lower corner.
   
   example 1: Thanks again! We hope to see you soon!
   Love, Amelia & Bob
   
   example 2: Thank you, Shirley!
   Sincerely,
   Betty

6. Mail it! Try to have your thank you note in the mailbox within a week of receiving your gift or gesture. 2 weeks is not too bad, but 3 weeks is pushing it...unless you are a new mom with no time or recently married and have hundreds of gifts!

Tips & Warnings

• Try to imagine you are talking to the person and say what you would say to them in person.
• Feel free to inject your personality or humor in there. (example: "Bob says he might have to steal that blanket from Sophie because it's so warm and soft!")
• If you don't know the person well or are unsure what to say to them, mention something about the season and try to include them. (example: We are looking forward to Christmas in North Carolina and hope your Christmas in Chicago is lovely and white!" )
• You can also comment on the wrapping and nice card that accompanied the gift as well. (example : "The gift was wrapped so beautifully and the card was adorable")
• Make sure you thank the person for all the gifts they give (even something very small) because they may think you did not receive part of their gift.
• Do not recycle the same adjectives throughout the card. Make sure you vary adjectives (e.g., lovely, great, fantastic, useful, handsome...)
• Avoid bland words like, "nice"...it shows little enthusiasm.

[firehead4]

on 11/19/2009 Please rate this article! Thanks!