An Old Fashioned "Thank You"

Thank you notes are still a powerful form of communication and are becoming an increasingly lost art form. There are many occasions when it is appropriate to express appreciation in written form, for example after a job interview, a special business dinner, or when a mentor provides needed advice or direction. Too often, what should be an old fashioned thank you note becomes a hurried email or (heaven forefend) a text message. What has happened to the fine art of a hand written, carefully personalized, and swiftly-posted thank you? My guess is that many have forgotten how to approach such a note without it sounding stilted and awkward. Think of it terms of keeping it simple, heartfelt, personal and brief. For example: Dear Reader, Thank you for being a faithful follower of my Haropulos Bailey Consulting Blog. It is gratifying to hear from you that my stories, tips, and advice hit home with my intended audience. I am especially grateful for the comments you have posted – they are added inspiration. Thank you again, and stay tuned for future postings! Sincerely, Laurel This is how I approach it: 1. Write out your text in advance (I do it on a computer). This helps me do the hand-written version without making mistakes. 2. Start with a small, tasteful card. (Minimal real estate makes it easier to write an appropriately brief note.) 3. After a “Dear So-And-So”, dive right in with the words “Thank you”, immediately followed by a description of what you are thankful for. 4. Make it personal by mentioning something specific about how the person’s actions made you grateful. 5. Wrap up with another “thank you” before your closing. Much of the impact of a formal thank you note is quick receipt after the “event”. So break out the note cards and the ink pen, dust off your longhand skills, and make a date with the postmaster. Your note will surprise and delight a friend or colleague, and be sure to leave a good impression.