In a recent networking meeting, a question arose: how do I thank someone properly for something successful they suggested or referred to me?

Let’s start by saying it depends (you knew that was coming).

It depends on the situation, how well you know them, the hierarchy of you and them in the company culture. the size of the win, the ethics in their (or any) industry, etc.

So a gift card of any dollar size may be problematic, especially in a corporate setting, so let’s leave money, a meal, and gift baskets out of this discussion.

A few ideas were batted around the group:

  • an email
  • a phone call
  • a handwritten note
  • a LinkedIn public post or a personal message (you knew that was coming too!)
  • an audio thank you
  • a video thank you
  • a visit to their desk (intracompany)

Choose at least one.

Make it sincere. Warm, and appreciatively well intended. Purposeful and appropriate.

Never sterile and formulaic.

Just don’t forget to thank them.

And don’t forget to consider them in the next instance in which you can return the favor, not that it is expected or you should feel that pressure.

This is like a seesaw. It always will be more weighted on one side, or else no one ever gets off it…but enjoy it and thank them for the enjoyable time as you ride.