Dear Jacquelyn,

I am embarrassed to admit it, but I am terrible about writing thank-you notes. I am inconsistent about this basic rule of etiquette. I mean well, but I always end up putting it off or forgetting. When should you write a thank-you note, or is this practice an outdated way of communicating?

Dear Reader,

Thank-you notes show appreciation for a thoughtful act or gift, and the significance of a handwritten note should not be overlooked.

If you’ve been on the receiving end of a meal or a gift, writing the person a thank-you note is definitely in order.

There are many, often overlooked reasons to send thank-you notes: to guests of your wedding, bridal or baby shower; when you’ve received a handwritten sympathy note for the passing of a loved one, and of course, when you’ve been hosted for an overnight stay.

Keep each note short. Three or four sentences is fine. Write something personal and be sure to be specific when you mention the gift or how much the gesture means to you. Don’t worry if your note seems short. The only rule is that it be sincere.

If months have gone by and you still haven’t gotten around to sending a thank-you note, it is perfectly acceptable to send one late. Be honest and apologize for the delay instead of ignoring the situation.

One suggestion I have to offer is to buy a pack of thank-you cards and postage stamps and keep them on hand. That way you don’t have to rush out and buy cards or stamps when you need one.

Written notes are always appreciated, so, when in doubt, write a thank-you note. A handwritten thank-you note is a winning gesture of goodwill.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of the Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training.

All Rights Reserved

&Copy; 2023 Jacquelyn Youst