It feels good to know that something you’ve done is appreciated. Often we do things for others out of habit because it seems like the right thing to do, or because a colleague or neighbor needs a helping hand. Of course, those roles can be reversed and we can find ourselves at the receiving end of that useful advice, suggestion, or favor. In those cases, it can feel good to let the person know that their efforts are appreciated.
So no matter your relationship—be it a friend, teacher, or coworker—we have a guide for how to write a warm appreciation message.
What is an appreciation message?
An appreciation message is a heartfelt expression of gratitude and recognition for someone’s help, kindness, or support. It can be given to friends, family, co-workers, teachers, or anyone who has made a positive impact on your life. Appreciation messages can come in many forms, from a simple thank-you note to a more elaborate gesture of appreciation. The key is to convey your sincere gratitude and let the person know how much you value their contribution. Whether it’s a small gesture or a grand gesture, an appreciation message can go a long way toward making someone’s day and strengthening your relationship with them.
How do you write an appreciation message?
The first step to writing an appreciation message is to reflect back on how the person you’re addressing has impacted your life for the better. (After all, there’s a reason why you feel the urge to thank them.) You should jot down a specific anecdote of when they made you thankful, which will be central to your message.
The context of your appreciation will also determine how much information you need to include in your letter. For example, sending a thank-you note for receiving a welcome-to-the-neighborhood gift can probably stay short and sweet. By contrast, a message to a family member who helped you navigate a job loss should probably be longer and more detailed.
As for the structure of your message, here are some of the elements you may want to include:
- Greeting
- Specific example or two of what they did that was so helpful
- Closing thoughts (for example, saying you’ll miss them if they’re moving away, or wishing them luck as they start their next job)
- Sign-off
The last step, of course, is to make sure that your message is clear, polished, and typo-free. A grammar checker can come in handy here.
Simple appreciation messages
1 Thanks for your help with X.
2 I really appreciate all of your hard work.
3 You’ve been so helpful with X. Thanks!
4 Sending you some much-deserved appreciation for X.
Appreciation messages for friends and family
5 I’m lucky to call you a friend. Thanks for all of your support.
6 I appreciate all of your help during this difficult time. You’ve been a solid, kind presence throughout.
7 We need more people like you in the world. I appreciate your kindness and thoughtfulness.
8 Thanks for coming to my rescue when I was sick. It means a lot to me.
9 Your well-wishes meant so much to me while I was X—thank you!
10 I’m glad you’re a weirdo like me. I love being weird together.
Appreciation messages for coworkers
11 I’m so happy to have a coworker like you—you keep it real and make office life fun.
12 Thanks for pushing me to be a better [role/title]. I’ve really enjoyed working with you these past few months.
13 You really stepped up to cover X while I was out. Thank you.
14 Working with you is a big part of why I love my job. Thanks for making every day such a joy!
15 Your hard work makes my job easier. Thanks for all you do!
16 I’ve learned a lot from you while working on the project. Thanks for showing me the ropes and sharing your insights.
Appreciation messages for teachers
17 Your guidance has meant so much to me over the past few years. I’m a stronger writer, better editor, and more punctual (usually!) thanks to you.
18 I appreciate all of your help this semester. Your lessons inspired me to dig a little deeper.
19 Thank you for writing such thoughtful letters of recommendation. I’m nervous concerning a lot of things about the college application process, but this isn’t one of them.
20 It feels like words aren’t enough to express my gratitude for all of your guidance with [child’s name] this year. I know teaching can be an all-consuming job, and I appreciate everything you’ve done. Thank you.
21 I never thought I’d have so much fun learning math. Thank you—I’m looking forward to next year!
Appreciation messages for a service
22 Thank you for all of your hard work catering my wedding, [name]. You made my dream meal for my dream day and you helped it all go off without a hitch.
23 I’m in love with my new haircut, thanks so much! You’re so talented and I feel so lucky to have you as my hairstylist!
24 The block party was a smashing success—thank you for doing the big lift of organizing it and helping build a stronger neighborhood.
25 Being a nurse can be a tough gig, but you made me smile every day (no small feat in a hospital). Thank you for your care.
Appreciation message FAQs
What is an appreciation message?
An appreciation message, or thank-you letter, is a written, heartfelt expression of gratitude to another person.
How do you write an appreciation message?
The first step is to reflect on a time when you’ve felt grateful for the recipient’s efforts. Then, share a thoughtful, specific example of how their efforts impacted your life for the better.
What are some simple appreciation messages?
You may write something like, “I appreciate X,” “Thank you for all of your help,” or “I’m grateful for Y,” to share your gratitude.
