Today in elementary schools across the country, students will collect vibrant, cheerful valentines. The decorated shoe boxes they stuff them into will be full and the smiles will be wide. That’s because being remembered with a card makes us feel celebrated and cared for.
This lesson learned in childhood can be easily neglected in the busyness of adulthood. Sending personal notes is a valuable professional skill. Here are five occasions to send a personal note in the workplace:
- After an interview. In the interest of timeliness, opt for a brief, but genuine email thanking your interviewers for the opportunity.
- Upon a reference. When someone provides you with a reference, send a note of thanks for their assistance in your job search. This can be done through email, but writing a note by hand shows intentionality and gratitude.
- At the close of a big project. Send an email or note to each team member at the close of a big undertaking. Acknowledge their specific contribution and express your thanks.
- When a colleague has lost someone close to them. When you send a note expressing your sympathy to a bereaved colleague, they felt seen and supported in a difficult time.
- When a colleague retires. Take the time to handwrite a card expressing your appreciation for their dedication and share what you’ve learned from them.
