Use this structure to write the perfect Thank You note. They are the 6 Gs.
1. Greeting by Name. Easy. Dear (name). Everyone loves to hear their name. It also focuses attention on the receiver.
2. Gratitude. A simple thank you will suffice.
3. Gift. Mention the gift you received. If it was money do not mention the amount. Instead use “thank you for your generosity”. Mentioning the gift shows you remember the gift.
4. Goodness. Here is where you succintly say how the gift is good (useful, of value) to you. Gift givers often have a difficult time picking the perfect gift “for you”. Reward them by saying they did. Express how you use, or will use, the gift. Be genuine.
5. Gratitude again. Repeat your thank you.
6. Goodbye. I prefer “Sincerely” over “Very truly yours”. It is appropriate for business & personal notes. While both are the most common and acceptable, there are many more. The goodbye should be suited to the gift giver and their relationship to you.
That’s all there is to it. Here are some general guidelines for thank yous:
- Handwritten notes are best
- Use blue ink over black
- Use note size paper
- Good quality engraved personal stationery beats prepackaged cards
- Try to send the thank you note within one week.
- Keep it short. Of course, particular circumstances & your relationship with the gift giver may dictate a longer note.
Remember, the purpose of a thank you is to make the giver feel special, show them your genuine gratitude, and express that you value & appreciate them. It is never about you.
For professionals, send thank you notes to open house guests & agents, clients you spent the whole day driving to appointments, other agents you worked with, the attorneys, title company closers and other professionals after a closing or whenever you believe a person has done something for you. It happens more than you may think. Since you may need to write a lot more thank yous, some tweaking of the formula is necessary. Handwritten notes may not be practical. A script type face may be a good substitute and office stationery would be appropropriate.
What you may ask is the gift that you received. It is the gift of another person. They have given of themselves, even if it was in the context of the usual course of business. Thank clients for choosing you & offer to do your best for them. Don’t take these everyday events for granted. People will appreciate that you are thankful.
A Final Note: Thank you for taking the time to read this post and commenting on it.
