Every so often I get email about all the ‘silly Thank You emails” folks get and how to make them stop. Who would have thought that one would complain about being thanked. That statement says more about them than the “thanker”.
As I’ve written before, I always welcome “silly Thank You emails.” They make me smile and let me know that my time and response was appreciated. Why? Because for all the questions asked and thoughtful responses given, rare are the Thank Yous to follow.
So when do you send a “Thank You!” email?
- When you send an email asking questions that require the person on the other side to stop what they are doing and provide you the answers you seek. A nice “I appreciate your advice — thank you!” will ensure that next time you ask questions, they too will be answered.
- When you send an email asking someone to do something for you that maybe you don’t want to spend the time figuring out yourself. If you don’t want to take the time and the person on the other side does so on your behalf a quick “Thank so much for taking the time to help me out!”. That is simply the right thing to do.
- If you are frustrated or confused about a process or some information you received. Initially you sent a curt, blunt or demanding request for assistance (be honest if you did). Now would be a good time to thank the person on the other side. This makes sure they won’t cringe next time they see your name in their inbox.
- When you are thrilled with an email, ezine or newsletter you receive and want to let the other side know their efforts are appreciated. It takes a ton of work and time to write good stuff. A quick “Thank You!” is all it takes to let them know to keep plugging away.
- Anytime, anywhere that another onliner takes the time, makes the time to help, cajole, humor or assist. That is the pefect time to send a “Thank You!” email.
Be Generous with Gratitude
It is a sad commentary on how few take the time to show gratitude for those who help them out. Especially when it comes to business relationships. Those are probably the very same folks who complain about the “incessant thank-youers” out there.
To those who thank me on a regular basis; those who enjoy my tips, my Blog or my commentary — don’t worry about annoying me. You always put a smile on my face and let me know my efforts on the thankless job of promoting proper E-mail Etiquette and in particular Business E-mail Etiquette here on this site are worth every key stroke.
And for that, I Thank You!