A WORD FROM THE ADVISORS

The power of a thank you

Written by Jeff and Susan Rhode

Most of us were taught to say “please” and “thank you” from a very young age. These words show our gratitude for kind gestures that family, friends and even strangers do for us every day. A thank you can be shared in many forms including a written note sent by mail, an email, a text message or words of appreciation delivered in person. There is no right or wrong way to extend your thanks, but a handwritten note is the most traditional way to show your gratitude and typically has the biggest impact on the receiver.

Writing a thank you note can be challenging. Here’s five easy steps to guide you through this process:

1. Start with a salutation. How formal or informal the note needs to be depends on a few factors. If you’re well acquainted with your recipient, then you may be fine addressing them by their first name. For people you don’t know as well, stick to “Mr. or Mrs. Last name.”

2. Get right to the point and express your thanks. Mention specifically what you’re thankful for. “Thank you for sponsoring the showmanship trophy at the county livestock show.”

3. Mention a specific detail or two. Include something that you appreciated or how you’re using the item you received. “My trophy is proudly displayed in our family room as a re- minder to work hard to achieve my goals.”

4. Look ahead. Let them know how their kindness and support has inspired you or others. “I am already practicing for next year’s showmanship contest.”

5. Wrap it up with more gratitude and a warm sign off. Bring the attention back to where you started. “Thanks again for supporting our youth livestock show. Your kindness is greatly appreciated.” End in a pleasant and friendly tone. Always keep in mind the type of relationship you have with the recipient. “Sincerely” is always a proper way to end.

Your note of thanks can be written on a formal thank you note or a simple piece of paper. Write as neatly and clearly as you can and always go back and read your note before sealing the envelope and dropping it in the mail. Make sure the envelope is addressed properly and don’t forget the stamp.

Your involvement in many activities would not be possible without the generosity of sponsors, volunteers and others who contribute time and resources to youth programs. Be sure they know just how much their kindness is appreciated.