When to write a thank you note
In our fast-paced world of twitter, emails, drive-by cube interruptions and speed networking, taking the time to write a hand-written note is even more important. Trust me, I should know after changing jobs and getting married in one year, I’ve had a lot to be thankful for and a lot of people to thank.
When you should send a hand-written note:
1. After a job interview, right after, like get in your car and drop it off in the mail on your way home, right after. You’d be surprised at how many other applicants won’t send one.
2. After a colleague/acquaintance makes a valuable business introduction or connection for you
3. If your mentor takes time out of his/her schedule to spend time assisting you with your professional development
4. The gang at work pools together and gets you something for your birthday
5. A co-worker covers a shift or jumps in to cover a project when you’re slammed with 5 other people’s “top priorities”
6. After leaving a job
7. Someone offers you a great opportunity – speaking at a conference, the ability to sit in during an important meeting, etc.
A simple rule that I once read once was that if it takes the person more time to do you the favor, extend the opportunity or help you out than for you to write the thank you note — write the note
And remember, it seems like a no-brainer but a lot of people get too busy, forget or don’t think it’s important. Writing that thank you is a differentiator and can continue to work for you for years; plus it makes the person who helped you out feel great about what they did and about you!
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5 Responses to “When to write a thank you note”
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June 12th, 2008 at 7:30 am
Jamie-
I’m a big advocate of “Thank You Cards.” When I get them from others, I am touched that they took the time to think of me. It’s a great practice so I try to send them as often as possible.
June 12th, 2008 at 10:08 am
What if you didn’t get a chance to send the note as soon as you left the meeting? Should you still send the note and just apologize for its tardiness?
June 12th, 2008 at 11:32 am
Yana – I would still send the note, but try to send it within the first two days preferably, you’re probably safe within a week but after that I think it looses some of its touch with an interview thank you.
June 12th, 2008 at 11:42 am
[...] blog entry over at Newly Corporate titled When to write a thank you note caught my attention today. As you’ve probably guessed, it’s a list of times you should [...]
June 13th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
You’ve made some great points here.
I particularly appreciate your comments regarding thank you notes and the workplace.
It’s true that many professioals think that they just don’t have the time to sit down and write a note of thanks.
However, if they knew what I’ve learned about how this kind of professional courtesy can pay off, they’d make the time.
Communicating your gratitude to others in this way helps to strengthen your professional relationships. It just makes good business sense.