DURING THE festive season the emphasis is on gift giving and choosing the right present. Most of us give little thought as to what happens after we've received the gifts.
Well, what about a hand-written thank you note to the people who took the time to buy the gift? It may be
old-fashioned but this is a gracious way of acknowledging the effort made by the giver, it shows appreciation and good 'brought upsy'.
Plus, while it may not mean much to you, for grandmas and grandpas the world over, a hand-written thank-you note provides a sense of warmth, connection and hope that young people today do have manners.
Want another reason for sending a thank-you note?
They can improve the frequency and quality of the gifts you receive. People like being appreciated, and if they
feel you actually notice the things they do for you,
chances are they'll keep on giving. (However, do not,
use this as a strategy for getting more gifts.)
DOES EVERY GIFT DESERVE A THANK-YOU?
Yes -- even the auntie who keeps giving you the
old-fashioned granny dresses that she insists on
making every year. You may feel like a hypocrite
thanking her for the "beautiful" dress. So, instead,
thank her for thinking of you and taking the time to
stitch up the frock. If the colour or patterns are
particularly nice, comment on those.Or you may want
to comment about how warm and fuzzy it makes you feel knowing that she has created something
especially for you.
HAVE ON HAND
While you're out doing your Christmas shopping, grab a pack or two of nice thank you paper or note cards, and don't forget to buy envelopes.
WHEN TO SEND
Be sure to send thank you notes in a timely fashion -- up to two weeks after you receive a gift is a good guideline. However, remember, better late than never when it comes to showing your appreciation.
Six simple steps:
The note need not be long, nor do you have to exaggerate. Just look for the positives, comment on those and
express your gratitude.
1: Greet the giver: "Dear Auntie Karen."
2: Express your gratitude: "Thank you so much
for the vacuum cleaner."
3: Mention using the gift: "Now cleaning my carpets
will be so much easier. My old vacuum cleaner was on
its last legs so this is great."
4: If appropriate, mention the past, allude to the future:
"It was great seeing you at Christmas.
I'll pack up the kids one day in the new year and
come to visit you in St. Elizabeth."
5: Thank them again: "Thanks again."
6: Close: "Love, Michelle."
If the gift is money, there's no need to refer to the amount. Simply thank the person for his or her generosity and mention how you might be using it. For example, say that it's a big help because it will really help you to buy the computer you've been saving towards, or that it will be going directly to your bank account.
