Most positions in any industry often entail working with others to achieve specific goals. Some of these scenarios involve seeking the help of your managers or a senior who provided you with insights or lessons on how you can handle particular tasks. These people may even offer emotional or mental support when you are having trouble.
One way you can thank these people is by writing a gratitude letter to them. This letter will let your colleagues, manager, or mentor know that you appreciate their support or teachings. It can even inspire them and foster a positive relationship with them, opening new opportunities in the process. Sometimes, it can improve the state of your workplace since you know you appreciate your colleagues’ presence and help.
It is important to note that it is not similar to a formal business letter. This usually involves discussing business goals and asking the recipient to take action. Sometimes, it may also have very formal language that can be overwhelming to those who receive it.
But, how do you write a gratitude letter? Does it have to be formal? How long should it be? How should you send it? Here are some great tips you need to remember and apply when you write one:
Know When To Write A Gratitude Letter
Giving a gratitude letter to a colleague or mentor would be greatly appreciated. Some of these occasions include times when a colleague helped you on a project, when a friend or mentor recommended a job opportunity, and when you want to thank a colleague who is leaving. You can also send a gratitude letter to the hiring manager even if you leave the company.
Know Why This Person Has A Positive Impact
When composing a gratitude letter, it’s essential to personalize it to convey genuine sentiment. To do this effectively, reflect on the reasons for writing to the individual and recall specific moments from your interactions that stand out. Additionally, think about how this person has positively influenced your career, identifying the moments that have had the most significant impact on you. By integrating these elements, your letter will resonate more deeply with the recipient.
Go Into Detail About Their Contribution And Thank Them
Go beyond simply pointing out the key instances where your recipient has offered assistance. Dive deeper into the reasons behind your gratitude for their support. For example, you could acknowledge how they guided you through a particularly challenging project, detailing the specific strategies they shared that enabled you to navigate the complexities involved. Perhaps they introduced you to innovative techniques that significantly increased your efficiency, allowing you to complete your tasks in a fraction of the time you previously needed. By articulating the specific contributions they made to your professional development, you not only show that you have given thoughtful attention to their impact on your journey, but you also foster a sense of appreciation that will resonate with them.
Handwritten vs. Typed
Should you write or type your gratitude letter? It depends on the situation and your preference. Handwritten letters will always feel personal since you took the time to write the letter for your recipients. But, if you want to make it more formal or your recipient is someone you are connected to only on a professional level, typing the letter may be ideal. Consider sending emails to send your gratitude letter to your recipient.
Always Proofread!
Having grammatical errors in your gratitude letter will only give your recipient the wrong impression about why you wrote to them. It is also unprofessional to leave these errors alone. Make sure to take the time to review your letter several times and correct the mistakes before sending it to your recipient. You can also use the time you do proofreading to make your letter as concise as possible, so your recipient won’t get confused as they read your letter.
While you can speak to your colleague or mentor to express your thanks, there’s nothing more personal than giving them a gratitude letter. When they receive it, it will let them know that you respect them and thank them for playing a part in your career’s growth. It will also show that their support does not go unnoticed and inspire them to continue helping others in need.
So, if you have someone whom you want to acknowledge for their involvement in your growth and strengthen your relationship with them, consider writing them a gratitude letter. It will make them happy and show that you value their contribution. Your workplace will also be better in the process.
Found your dream job? If not, don’t fret. Here are some suggestions:
How to Overcome Job Interview Anxiety
8 Ways to Decide if a Job is a Good Fit for You
9 Ways to Boost Your LinkedIn Profile to Get That Job You Want
Can’t get enough of MiddleMe? You can find me sharing my thoughts here as well:
Instagram @kallymiddleme
Twitter (MiddleMe_net)
FaceBook (MiddleMe.net)
LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/kallytay
