The world is more connected today that it ever has been before. People thing tagging their host in a selfie at the event on social media is an appropriate form of acknowledging and thanking the host for all he or she went through to make the party an event enjoyed by all. I know, this sounds absurd, right? If you are invited to a holiday party you need to send a thank you card to the host. If you got a gift for Christmas, you need to write a thank you card. If your neighbors brought you a bottle of sherry and a plateful of Christmas cookies, you need to write a thank you card. Here are five tricks to make sure you don’t fail in this very important category of life.

1. You have 24 hours

Even I am guilty of this rule. We get busy and forget but that’s just it. Imagine if, when we got home we sat down with pen and paper? Our words would be overflowing! We would remember each detail and the words will warm the host’s heart to read. But instead, she has to read a generic thank you weeks later and nobody even remembers the event…

2. Good quality Stationary

The Thank you on the front of the card is not necessary, you’ll cover that inside the note. God quality paper is a must, though. Write with a rollerball pen and be mindful of your grammar.

3. Start with a rough draft

Most of us don’t write anymore, we have keyboards. So, when writing your letter outline a few details you want to mention in your letter. Maybe the hosts dress or the hosts humor and collection of humidors are worth mentioning. Start out free form and when you are ready to get to writing on the actual card make sure to write neatly and make sure your lines keep straight!

4. Make your points

In a personal thank you note, make sure you write about how and why it was special. “Thank you so much for planning an invigorating, mind opening, and luxurious weekend!” sounds so much better than “Thank you for planning the weekend”. Speak authentically and in your own voice.

5. Check your work

Proofread your letters! Appearing lazy is a death note. Check your work and write the host’s name correctly on the envelope. Place the stamp on the envelope straight. From the moment they see your letter in their physical mailbox your personal brand should be speaking to them.