An appreciation letter is simply a letter expressing your gratitude to a friend, relative or potential employer. A friend may have helped you in a job search, a relative could have helped your family during a particularly stressful time, or a potential employer may have granted you an interview. No matter what the situation is, writing an appreciation letter to someone who helped you in some way lets the recipient know that you are truly thankful for their kindness or action.
It is a matter of good etiquette to write an appreciation letter when an individual has extended an effort to help you in a situation, whether it is personally related or job related.
1. Always write your letter soon after the fact. Do not wait for weeks or months when someone has helped you or a potential employer granted you an interview. Write your appreciation letter within a few days, a week at the most.
2. Express your true feelings. Be honest in your letter; don’t write things that you don’t truly feel, but do express your sincere appreciation and gratitude. Use an honest tone that reflects how you would sound if you were to talk to the recipient in person.
3. Choose the layout according to the recipient. For a close friend or relative, personal stationery is fine. To write an appreciation letter to a business, use letterhead and type your letter in a professional manner.
4. Stick to the subject. When writing your letter, be brief and concise – especially in business. If writing to a friend, it is acceptable to be a bit more detailed.
5. Proofread your work. It is always essential that you proofread your work, whether you are sending your appreciation letter to a friend or potential employer. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make corrections if necessary.
Sample Appreciation Letter
Letterhead here if business related
City, State, Zip Code
Name of recipient
City, State, Zip Code
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,
Thank you for taking the time to talk with me today. Express your gratitude for time spent with you, advice, etc. in this area.
In this area, express your thanks for any specific advice given or recommendations, such as potential job openings or their efforts to connect you with networking resources that may assist you in your search for employment. This is where you would thank a prospective employer for granting you an interview as well.
Here, let the recipient know that you would welcome any further advice, and that you will let them know the results of their efforts.
In closing, express your thanks and appreciation once again.
Of course, when writing an appreciation letter to a friend or relative you do not have to write in a formal manner. The example above is geared more toward a business-oriented appreciation letter.