The Lost Art of Thank You Notes

It may seem old-fashioned to write a thank you note by hand, but showing gratitude never goes out of style. It’s a rarity to see handwritten letters or notes nowadays, so writing one will leave a lasting impression on the recipient.

When to Write One

Thank you notes can be appreciated in many different contexts from professional to personal. The most obvious times to write a thank you note are when you receive a gift for birthdays, holidays or graduation, but you can also send a note after completing an internship or an interview for a job. A handwritten letter will always come off as more sincere than an email or a text, so it’s a meaningful way to show appreciation to your loved ones.

Thank you messages are perfectly fine in professional settings. Don’t be afraid to reach out to professors, TAs, LAs or any other faculty member during the semester. They will definitely appreciate it, and it could open some doors for opportunities. The most important part about writing a thank you note is making sure it’s timely. Late is better than never, but good timing shows that you care.

Choosing Your Card

Everyone has their own personal style and you should let it shine through in your notes. There’s so many cute cards you can find to match your personality. If you’re mailing the card, consider ordering some cute stamps! However, for professional settings, simple is usually better. You don’t have to be extremely worried about the color, thickness or font of the card, but it’s important to choose the appropriate style for the setting. For an employer, professor or mentor, choose a card with an elegant font and a polished design.

How to Write a Thank You Note

Thank you notes and emails should be structured similarly. Start with a greeting like, “Dear (name).” Then explain why you’re writing to them and be specific in what you’re thanking them for. If you’re writing about a gift, talk about how you’re excited to use it. If you received money, write about what you’re going to spend it on. If it’s a professional setting, thank them for their time and consideration.

Although it may seem nice to write a lot, a note that is short and sweet is more effective. For the conclusion, make sure to thank them again and use a closer. You can’t go wrong with “sincerely,” but try to add your own personal flair. If you’re feeling adventurous, try writing in cursive. Don’t stress about making it perfect because it’s the thought that counts.

Tag us in pictures of your own thank you notes @VALLEYmag on Instagram!

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