The Power of the Thank You Note – insight by Michele Dobe
During my years of coaching with Studer Group, I’ve heard countless stories from partners about the profound impact of recognition strategies. One of the most common involves something as simple as a handwritten thank-you note.
Time and time again, leaders share how a single thank-you note has moved an employee to tears, with comments like, “In all my years here, this is the first time I’ve ever received a note like this.” These moments underscore how often recognition is overlooked—and just how meaningful it can be.
I’ll never forget my own lightbulb moment. I’ve always believed in the power of recognition to drive engagement and demonstrate value. I knew the adage “Recognized behaviours get repeated,” but I didn’t fully grasp its impact until I received a thank-you note from my leader.
The note highlighted my positive approach to work and how it was influencing others. While it wasn’t the most specific feedback, it left me skipping down the hallways, high-fiving colleagues, and spreading positivity everywhere. It was then I realized: I was leaning into the behaviours my leader had recognized.
Too often, leaders focus their energy on tough conversations—addressing what went wrong—while overlooking the opportunity to “re-recruit” their teams by celebrating what’s going right. But recognition is more than a morale booster; it’s a driver of engagement and results.
The Data Doesn’t Lie:
- Employees who feel recognized are 4x more likely to be engaged (Gallup).
- Recognition increases productivity by 31% and reduces turnover by 28% (Workhuman).
How to Write an Effective Thank-You Note:
- Be Specific: Highlight the exact actions or behaviours you’re recognising.
- Explain the Impact: Share how their actions positively affected the team, organisation, or others.
- Keep it Personal: A handwritten note or personal touch adds meaning.
- Be Timely: Recognition is most impactful when it’s close to the event or behaviour being celebrated.
Small gestures like thank-you notes might seem insignificant, but they can transform workplaces.
Here are some tips for writing an effective thank you note:
