The Undeniable Power of a Thank You Note

Gratitude is big these days. From personal mantras and meditations to the practice of keeping a journal, the idea of noticing and appreciating the good things in life is widely recognized as a pathway to happiness.

When it comes to expressing gratitude, there’s one tool that creates a ripple of benefits for both the giver and the recipient: the handwritten note. It’s simple, inexpensive and creates an undeniable positive impact. A thank you note has the power to strengthen a relationship, seal a deal or land a job offer.

As simple a task, the small note card is often overlooked. A recent study by Accountemps found that only 24% of job seekers send thank you notes after interviews. In contrast, 80% of interviewers consider them helpful in assessing job candidates. What separates you from the crowd? A piece of paper, a 55-cent stamp and 5 minutes of your time can help distinguish you from competing interviewees.

Could it be that the idea of thank-you notes, written by hand and sent by U.S. Mail, seems old-fashioned? Perhaps it’s because in a fast-paced world, taking the time to write a short message of appreciation doesn’t seem worth the effort when a text is faster and more efficient.

Anyone who has ever received a small, stamped envelope with a handwritten address in a stack of mass-mailed bills and bulk junk mail understands their allure: the fact that someone took the time to notice a kindness and express their thankfulness in writing is undeniably heartwarming. It makes the recipient feel good and creates a halo effect around the person who sent the message. It shines a spotlight on the gift of human connection.

Here are 8 ways to harness the undeniable power of the thank you note.

Be Ready

Keep a drawer with everything you will need: stamps, note cards or stationery and a good writing pen. Part of the hurdle is corralling your writing supplies together so you don’t have to hunt for what you need in a rush. Customized stationery is nice, but a box of blank note cards from any drugstore will also fit the bill.

Short and Concise

Thank you notes can be intimidating when you feel the need to write a lengthy, multi-page tome. The perfect note is 4-5 sentences: one that identifies the gesture that you wish to comment on; a sentence or two about what the kindness means to you; and a closing sentence that reiterates your appreciation, followed by a closing and your signature.

Speak (Write) from the Heart

Big words and flowery language are not required. Jot down a thought or two on what the courtesy you received meant to you. Put on paper what you would say to the person if you were speaking face to face. Mention specifics and speak in your natural voice. Your true self will come through if you say it out loud first.

Get the Job

Writing a few lines of appreciation accomplishes multiple goals. It builds on your relationship with the interviewer while demonstrating your initiative, follow-through, enthusiasm and attention to detail. Start by thanking the interviewer for their time and letting them know you enjoyed meeting them. You can add that you appreciated the chance to learn more about the opportunity. Mention something you learned about the company during the interview (if space permits). You may also wish to emphasize how your experience is a good fit for the position.

Use a Pen

Even if you have lousy handwriting, write as legibly as possible instead of pounding out your thanks on a keyboard. The extra effort involved in a handwritten letter makes your message come across as much more personal and sincere. Even poor handwriting will be overlooked when comparing it to no note at all.

Celebrate Small Acts of Goodwill

Gift givers can expect to receive a thank-you in acknowledgment of their present, especially following a milestone such as a wedding, graduation or birthday. But thank you notes that show up outside of those occasions can really make an impression. Consider sending a thank you note out of the blue to a mentor who has given you their time and expertise, a contact who sent you a business lead, a friend who did you a favor or a colleague who covered for you when you were out on vacation. There are many opportunities to demonstrate your gratitude to others. Not only will the recipient feel honored to receive your message, but you will benefit from the gesture of kindness.

The Benefits

A handwritten note does worlds of good for the sender, as well. It can build relationships, strengthen friendships, express condolences and offer apologies. It can even alleviate years of guilt and melt away anger. A note of any kind has the ability to brighten someone’s day and let them know they are not alone in this big world. There is simply no good reason not to buy a beautiful package of stamps, find a pretty pen and paper and get writing!

You may also like Thank You Note Q & A. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow Diane on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter. Buy her new book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life.