How to Write a Short Thank you Note

A well written Thank you note can show gratitude, appreciation and sincerity.  Even a short thank you note can often adequately express gratitude, and of course a short thank you note is better than none at all!  Here are some things to include in your thank you note, and some strategies to help you show your thanks. 

The first thing to do is locate a nice sheet of paper and a pen that works.  I can’t stress the pen enough, if you use a pen that is dying while you write, it will quite possibly detract from your undying gratitude.  It shows that you didn’t really spend very much time on your note, and puts your thanks into question.  Don’t ever email a thank you note.  For a gift or service rendered, a tangible note in the mail is usually expected; emails usually seem hurried and too informal. Likewise typing your letter can seem odd and unorthodox. 

When you begin writing your note, you will want to begin with an address.  Not a literal street address, but rather a “dear uncle Charles” or a less formal “Hello Mother”.  You can use a variety of generic phrases such greetings, salutations, etc.  Find a phrase that fits the recipient best and is appropriate for your relationship. 

Next you will want to state the main purpose of your note.  Thank the giver for the gift or favor given, or service rendered. After giving the reason for your note, expound upon why you are thankful, such as “You were really there for me in my time of need.”  It also might be nice to write about your relationship with that person, something mentioning how you are true friends, or professional business partners. 

Last write about how you plan to use the gift, or return the favor.  Something like, “and if you ever need a helping hand, don’t hesitate to ask,” would satisfy this step.  Express your thanks again, and close the note ending with your signature.  Your signature adds personalization and character to the thank you note and should not be overlooked.