Writing Thank-You Notes
TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-430 -- More Projects »
Organizing expert Pam Hix shares tips on the etiquette and organization of writing thank-you notes.
- It's fun to receive gifts and invitations, but it's not always so easy to acknowledge these in a timely fashion. Put together a kit to make sending out thank-you notes easier. Buy some attractive stationery, or make it a home with a stamping kit. Another idea is to purchase a supply of printed thank-you cards for various occasions, and keep a supply of blank cards on hand. Store these together in a designated drawer or keep in a decorative container such as a hatbox.
- Thank-you notes should be sent for the following reasons: when you receive a gift or flowers, when you are the guest of honor at a dinner party or are invited as a weekend guest, when someone does you a favor such as providing a job reference, or when condolences are extended.
- Preprinted cards are acceptable, but nothing takes the place of a handwritten expression of thanks. Don't simply sign and mail the card, but take the time to write a few lines expressing gratitude. If someone has taken the time to do something nice, express sincere thanks in your own words.
- Notes for special occasions, such as a wedding, should be sent out within two or three weeks of receiving the gift and no later than six to eight weeks. Mail notes for dinner parties or weekend guest situations the day after the event.
- A newly married couple can save a lot of time and stress by using a wedding notebook that includes a section for gifts. Another idea is to use a spiral notebook or index card file to create a gift log system. List the name, address and phone number of each person who brings a gift, what the gift was, the store the item came from, the date received and the date that the note was sent.
- Computer-generated cards are a nice way to respond. Create cards with a personal touch by using a photograph from the event.
- If cash is received, do not mention the amount in the card. This makes it appear as though the amount of money is more important than the thought. Just say thanks and maybe mention the purpose for which the money will be used.
- It's never too early to teach children how and when to send a thank-you note. If they're not yet old enough to write, at least let children help by drawing a picture and print their name at the bottom of the note. For older children, provide a simple message they can copy. After they've written a few notes, stop using the sample and let their own imagination and creativity take over.
Guests Pam Hix
Organization Consultant, Everything's Together Organizing Services
13012 June Terrace
Minnetonka, MN 55305-2740
Phone: 952-939-8080
E-mail:
pjhix@aol.com
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