How to Say Thank You in a Card
It's a sad fact that handwritten thank-you notes now belong squarely in the "dying art" category, as they're always appreciated and rarely fail to touch the recipient with the writer's gratitude. Help keep the thank-you card tradition alive by penning your notes of thanks with care and attention to details.
Things You'll Need
- Stationery or note card of choice
- Scrap paper
- Pens
- Markers
- Stickers
- Envelope seal
- Stamp
Instructions
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Choose a card or stationery that is appropriate for the occasion. If you're writing to thank someone for a gift, any of your favorite personal stationery is a good option. If you're writing to thank someone in a professional setting, as you would after a job interview, choose a card that is elegant and understated, and make sure there is no pre-printed message inside other than a simple "thank you."
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Draft your note of thanks on scrap paper. Use a standard salutation, such as "Dear Grandma" or "Dear Ms. Singh." Begin the letter with a greeting if you wish (e.g., "I hope this message finds you well!"), then get straight to the business of thanking the recipient: Thank you so much for the Christmas sweater; I'm writing to express my gratitude to you for taking the time to meet with me today regarding the marketing position at Switch, Inc.
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Include specific details to make your letter really personal and heartfelt. If you're writing to thank someone for a gift, tell them how much you appreciate the item and how you plan to use it: "I'll wear the sweater every year!" If you received money, don't mention the amount or use the word "cash" in your thank-you note. Tell the giver how you'll use the money, and let them know you deeply appreciate their help. In a professional thank-you card, express the fact that the interviewer's or recruiter's day is very busy, and so you really appreciate their taking time from their day to meet with you.
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Write the note out in the card or on your stationery of choice once you have deemed your draft acceptable for fluidity and sincerity. Get rid of any awkward phrasing before you finalize the card, and use a high-quality pen so you won't run out of ink or create blots on the page. Make sure you date the note for posterity. Sign, seal, and stamp the card and drop it in the mail.
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Tips & Warnings
Sending cards of unusual sizes by US mail often requires additional postage. If you're in doubt, go to a local post office and have them stamp it for you to make sure it won't get lost in the mail.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images