When interviewing for a job, it’s standard procedure to send a thank you note after the interview. However, what about when you have the job? How can you thank that coworker who helps you out of a tough spot right before a deadline? Should you even send a thank you note to a colleague?
Occasions to Consider Writing a Thank You Note
The answer is yes! A coworker might not expect a thank you note, but getting one might just make their day. It’s polite and thoughtful to thank someone for what they do, especially when it’s to your benefit. Here is a list of reasons you might consider sending a thank you note to a coworker:
- Covering a shift in an emergency
- Helping out with a project
- Volunteering to help you meet a deadline
- Mentoring you through a project or new job
- Leaving the company (or you are leaving the company)
- Providing a recommendation
- Recommending you for a promotion
- Generally supporting you in the workplace
Whether it’s one reason or another, your coworker will appreciate a personalized thank you note. It’s a professional and personal way to express your gratitude for their help in the office, making your workday a little easier.
Thank You Notes: Handwritten Cards or Emails?
If you realize that a thank you note is in order, the next question becomes: how do you go about writing it? You can send a quick email or write a handwritten note to express your gratitude to your coworker.
Emails are more professional than handwritten cards and are usually easier to write. If you need to tell your coworker thank you quickly and efficiently, or you don’t know them very well, an email is the best way to go.
While emails are professional and quick, handwritten notes are much more personal. There are many ways to go about writing a handwritten note to a colleague–you can buy fancy stationery and leave a note on their desk, or you can jot down a heartfelt thank you note on an index card.
While you can type up a letter and print it off, this might not be the best idea for a quick thank you note for a coworker. A typed letter is exceptionally formal and might not leave the right impression.
Whether you choose to write a thank you note by hand or send an email, your coworker will appreciate the time you took to thank them. Handwritten notes tend to create a longer-lasting impression. Remember, it’s the thought that counts.
20 Quick Thank You Notes You Can Pass On to Your Colleague
When thanking a colleague, it’s essential to say the right thing. You want to be personal yet remain professional. If you aren’t sure what to say, here are a few ideas you can send to your colleagues and coworkers when they’ve done you a good turn:
- Thank you for all you do around the office; your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed!
- Thank you for helping me with my project the other day. It made my day much less stressful, and I appreciated it!
- I appreciated your input in the meeting the other day; thank you for sharing your ideas.
- Thank you for the gift you got me at the office Christmas party. I appreciate it and can’t wait to use it!
- Thank you for being such a kind and considerate coworker. I am lucky to work with you!
- Thank you for covering my shift the other day. I appreciate you having my back when I need it most.
- I am so grateful for all the work you put into our group project last month. We couldn’t have gotten it done without you.
- Thank you for supporting me in the office throughout this year.
- Thank you for being a great coworker the entire time I’ve worked here. I will miss you and would love to keep in touch!
- I would like to thank you for the hard work you’ve put into making our team thrive as it does. We appreciate your sense of camaraderie and dedication.
- Thanks for taking over my clients while I was on leave! I’m glad everything went well, and I’m very grateful for the help.
- Thank you for being such a great asset to this company! We couldn’t do what we do without your contributions.
- Thank you for recommending me for that promotion–I wouldn’t be where I am today without your help and mentorship.
- Thank you for your feedback on the project last week. I appreciate your honesty and willingness to say the hard things to accomplish our goals.
- I appreciate your willingness to work with me on our projects. It’s been a pleasure getting to know you and working with you more.
- Thank you for helping me plan the office holiday party! I appreciate your input and willingness to volunteer.
- I appreciate your sense of humor and kindness to everyone. Thanks for making this office a better place to work!
- Thank you for making me feel welcome and appreciated during my first months on the job. You made me want to come to work every day!
- Thank you for mentoring me through my first project. I learned a lot from you, and I appreciate all you do.
- Thank you for seeing my potential and taking a chance on me. I appreciate the opportunity to work with you and learn from your expertise.
When writing your thank you note, ensure that you stay as professional as you need to. Start with a proper greeting, addressing them by their name. If they are your superior or a more distant coworker, you can use their first and last name. After your message, sign off sincerely but professionally with your name.
Final Thoughts
If you need to write a thank-you note to a colleague, keep it short and professional. Make sure that you greet your coworker properly and express your gratitude for their helpfulness to you. Expressing your appreciation through notes is a great way to be kind and thoughtful in the workplace.