This time of year is full of reminders for thankfulness. Spending time with family and friends, enjoying a holiday feast, and being thankful for a meaningful job. But what about the daily grind? How many times do you say “thank you” from 9-5? When is the last time you wrote a thank you note? The notion of a hand-written note may seem old-fashioned, but it is one of the most important communication tools that can be utilized throughout your professional career. In addition to it being a common courtesy, you are conveying the value of another person’s time. However, expressing appreciation has seemingly become a lost art in day-to-day business dealings.

For many of us, our first memories of thank you note writing took place at the dining room table, thanking family and friends for a birthday gift. When did get we get out of this thoughtful habit? Let’s reconnect with the thank you note. Make a commitment to send one thank you note a day, either via email or a hand-written note. Keep note cards handy – in your portfolio, on your desk, or in your glove box. When you have a free moment (ok… a less busy moment). Pull out a notecard and say thanks. It’s simple.

  1. Dear so-and-so:
  2. Thank you very much for (insert what action you are thankful for)
  3. It made a difference to me because … or it was important to me because …
  4. Warm regards, your name

You’ll be surprised at the response you’ll receive. In business, we rarely take the time to say “thanks” so when you do, it will stand out. Your thank you note may prompt a new client, acknowledge a thoughtful gift and strengthen a relationship. It will definitely make the recipient feel valued and important.