Step 3: Start with the person’s name and thank them for what they did. Do not use this to show how great you are or sell (if writing to a customer). It is only about the value of the person. When I send a “thank you” note to a client, I do not include flyers, business cards, or even branded letterhead. It is just a simple “thank you” card with a handwritten note of appreciation from the store.

Step 4: Send the card to the individual. Take the time to send the card to the individual. I prefer to send it out once written as I tend to forget. It is okay to send it through interoffice mail, if sealed. But I prefer to send it to the employee’s home through the US post office. Ensuring they see it and understand it is not about the company but their service and expertise.

Step 5: The final step is probably the most important. Repeat the process next week. Continue this process consistently as John Maxwell often says, “Consistency Compounds.” The more consistent you are, the more value you add to your team. You show them they are valued, and the culture of appreciation and support will become a standard for your organization. Even encourage other leaders around you to do the same. If your organization is small and you can send a card to everyone in less than a year, restart the process. If you only get to a few team members by the end of the year, that is okay. Restart the process the next year and increase the percentage by 2%.