Thursday, April 24, 2008

To Thank You OR Not To Thank You...That Is The Question

Every day, I help people build their dream bathrooms and kitchens. They make big decisions and I am there to help them every step of the way. Sometimes this process can be more difficult than others. Most people have a specific style that they like and they are easily guided in the direction of that style. Others are either not in touch with what style they like, or their styles vary so much that it makes it difficult to pin point what they will actually enjoy in their home. Thank You Cards are my way of telling my customers Thank you for letting me be a small part of your life and leave my mark on your home. I understand that the decisions that I help you make will, for most people be a decision they will live with for the rest of their lives. I send out thank you cards to each and every customer that I help along the way. I think this is a great way to add a personal touch after the sale.

When my children have birthday parties, I always make a list of who attends and what gifts they bring. This makes the thank you card process easier for me. I try to personalize each and every card to the gift giver. This is important to let people know that you and your child didn't just open gifts and toss them aside now knowing who got them what. I think that thank you cards are a necessity and should not be overlooked.

Here are a few dos and don'ts in thank you card etiquette:* Send your thank you cards as quickly as possible.
* ALWAYS reference the gift in the note.
* Remember to let the gift giver know that you will enjoy the gift or think of them when you see/use it.
* Never send a pre-printed card. Always add your own personalization (different for each individual card).
* Just remember to keep it simple and from the heart.

You will want to keep in mind the following occasions for sending thank you cards:* Wedding gifts.
* For sympathy letters, flowers, food, etc.
* To a hostess after a party that was hosted in your honor.
* For bridal or baby shower gifts.
* For gifts that were received by mail.
* After being entertained by your boss.
* Gifts received during a hospital stay.
* For notes or gifts of congratulations.

You might want to keep in mind the following occasions for sending a quick thank you even though it is not generally required or expected:
* After being a guest at a dinner party.
* After a job interview (not required, but definitely a smart idea).
* For birthday gifts that were received and opened in person, and you already thanked the giver personally. (Everyone who comes to any of our birthday parties receives a thank you card, even grandparents!)
* When a friend has helped you out with a special favor such as babysitting, a meal when you were sick, running errands for you when you are incapable. (It's always a good idea to send thank you cards to friends!)
* To the sales representative who has entertained you personally as part of a business relationship. ( I do this quite frequently! )

3 comments, add yours here:

Mom said...

I know some people who could use a copy of your post, thanks for the info. Have a great weekend

Kimmie said...

Tish...I am a firm believer of sending thank you notes. This post is perfect! I like that you pointed out how important it is for children to do their own...of course with a little overseeing from Mom. :-) Good values instilled at an early age is very important. You are such a good Mom and a wonderful role model.
Blessings,
Kimmie

P.S. How is the little one doing in your tummy? Kicking alot? Oh, how I miss that feeling. I loved when I was expecting. :-)

Traveling Bells said...

These instructions should be posted on *every* registry out there! I sure taught my three to write their own thank-you notes at an early age...and they are all grown up now and still send them. Makes this mom mighty proud!!!

Hugs,
Sandy B