The Art of Thank You Notes

In today's electronic world, personal (although sometimes seemingly archaic) communication is a key way to demonstrate professional capacity beyond our young years. Thank you notes and other handwritten communications are considered to many as an essential element of good etiquette and relationship-building. For many of us, writing a quick email, Facebook note, or tweet may seem like an ideal way to stay in touch, however, learning some basic note-writing tips will be helpful at least until the day the computer replaces paper completely.

While I wouldn't suggest handwritten notes for all occasions (according to an Emily Post Institute study, 70 percent of those surveyed said an email thank you was appropriate, especially for small gestures or gifts.). When you do decide to write something with pen and paper, consider the following few tips:

• Make time to write the note as soon as possible following the event (24 hours preferrably).
  
• Always write on personalized stationary, or finely-made paper or letterhead.
• Stick to the point, and write simply (thank you notes are usually on small notecards for a reason).
• Make specific references in the note to the person and event/experience you are thanking them for.
  
• Proofread or even draft your note before hand.

Aside from the tips above, some years ago, USA Today ran a story about setting yourself up for a great professional thank you note. You can read the article here.

Contributing: Chris Giovarelli
Photo: Dominik Gwarek