Are Thank You Notes Outdated? National Handwriting Day

The thank you note may seem like an old-fashioned, outdated way of communicating, but the reality is … the significance of a handwritten note should not be overlooked. Thank you notes make a powerful and positive impact on the recipient. During my university sessions, students often ask, “Are thank you notes outdated?” On the contrary, sending a handwritten note in the digital age immediately cuts through inbox clutter. In honor of National Handwriting Day, here are a few thoughts on why and how to write a memorable thank you note.

A More Personal Side to an Email

While an email is efficient and time effective, a thank you note feels “good.” It demonstrates to the receiver that you sincerely acknowledge their time, effort or act of kindness. In other words, a handwritten thank you note is a winning gesture of goodwill.

Difference Between a Social vs Business Thank You

It’s nice to have a particular card that works for both business and social notes. You wouldn’t want to send a note card with a picture of your cat or a recent vacation photo to a potential boss, thanking them for the job interview. On the other hand, if they are cat lovers, it may work to your advantage. Pause to think before you “stamp”.

Details Matter

Everything from how you address the envelope to their name and send-out matters. You want to spell their name correctly (Diane vs Diana), no strike marks if you misspell the name of their street, correct zip code and return address without “shortcuts.” Abbreviations are fine for the State, but don’t cut corners on your name or address. Spelling everything out communicates you took the time to make everything look “nice.”

What To Include

Make the note short and concise. Thank the person for the gift or effort, and be specific about how it made you feel or how you will use the item. If you were given money, share a few ways you plan to put it to use. Finally, reiterate your thanks and mention a follow-up in person or on the phone very soon. For example, “I look forward to hearing from you soon regarding the next step in the interview process. I am very interested in the job.”

Stamp vs Meter

A proper thank you note requires a stamp. Even if you have a meter at your office, take the extra step of using a current stamp. Avoid holidays that are already past for a business thank you note. While it’s perfectly fine to use them up, reserve them for friends and family who will be thrilled to hear from you.

For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go to” social and professional (manners) skills authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas. 

See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook. Find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account and keep up with her latest tweets. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost.