“You don’t have to do anything, it’s the thought that counts.”
While that sentiment has a lot of heart, I think the truth is “the appearance of thought” is what really counts– especially in communication. You want more sway in your business relations? You want to have better personal relationships? Well, you better learn how to really show that you feel thankful.
And no, you don’t have to rattle off a thank you speech. Just the notion of being indebted can carry a lot of power.
Even if you don’t care to expand your communication skills to that level, you should still be able to express thanks in a meaningful way. Unfortunately, most English learners only know “Thank you very much”. But what they don’t realize is, if you stick with a textbook cookie-cutter phrase, you sound pretty heartless.
Add a little heart with these expressions:
- Thanks a bunch.
- Thank you, [name].
- I really appreciate it.
The Conversation Coach 