Wednesday, January 16, 2008

While researching ancestors, by luck, the internet and amazing coincidence I found a third cousin on the other side of the continent who just a week ago introduced her newly published book, 101 Ways to Say Thank You - Notes of Gratitude for All Occasions by Kelly Browne So, if you are stuck, tongue tied or don't know how to thank someone for a perfectly awful gift, Kelly's book will guide you.

6 comments:

Rita said...

Once again, another wonderful referral for how to add some class and sophistication to an otherwise often rude world. Keep up the good work - it does my heart good.

Corby O'Connor said...

Thank you very much for your kind words. It does my heart good to know others value civility. Best regards, Corby

mb said...

Wow! You mean that you find a cousin across the world and you're both in a similar business?? Isn't that wild!

Frank said...

I'm going to order a copy of your counsin's book right away. My wife is constantly asking me "What should I say?" every time she writes a thank you note! This book will be a life-saver; now I can get back to the game!

Corby O'Connor said...

Hmmm I'm wondering too. First, you are wise to not expect a gift in return from your staff members...for two reasons. 1. gifts are given "down" in business...the boss gives to the subordinate. 2. A gift is just that ;something given freely with nothing expected in return.

To determine what is going on with your secretary you may need to do some reflection which it seems you have started. Is this the first year she has not given you a gift? If so, maybe she is trying to tell you something. But I wouldn't jump to that conclusion right away. This could be a difficult year for her financially or personally. I recommend you raise your antenna and see if you can pick up any other signals. Take her out to lunch or create an opportunity to chat in general. Don't mention the gift giving of course; just a general chat about how she is doing and if she is enjoying her work. If she is trying to send you a message give her the opportunity to do so. Let me know how it goes.

KLBrowne said...

Yes, Corby it's true. It is so incredibly important to thank people not only for the gifts they have given us, but for acts of kindness too. Not expressing our gratitude really can have a negative impact on the world around us. We do feel badly when our gifts go unacknowledged, especially when we invest time and money in picking them out. Somehow our excitement suddenly evaporates when we don’t receive a thank you and it is such an easy note to write. Remember, if someone took the time to do something nice for you it is essential to express your gratitude in return. Keep that spirit of graciousness flowing! On that note, Corby, I must thank you for helping me spread the word about my new book. I really appreciate it. – Kelly Browne