Sometimes it is not easy to answer a simple "thank you". Usually, people reply by saying "please" or "no problem". However, it is worth reflecting on the answer to be given in different contexts, which in fact can vary depending on the situation in which you find yourself. For example, you may respond to a colleague in one way and in other cases feel the need to formulate a sentence more in line with the relationships that exist with those in front of you. If, on the other hand, it is a close friend, you could argue in a totally different way. Therefore, in all circumstances there is the right answer to leave a positive impression on your interlocutor.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Responding to a Thanksgiving in a Business Context
Step 1. Answer sincerely
In meetings and business relationships you must avoid replies that are too confidential, but sincerely reply to thanks.
- Don't respond too friendly in the workplace. For example, if you are dealing with a customer or buyer, don't say "no problem", "when you want" and "okay".
- Respond with a warm and sincere tone when someone expresses their gratitude to you.
- After a meeting, you can send an email or note to show the recipient that you appreciate their cooperation. That way, he won't forget how useful you have been!
Step 2. Make people feel special
When you receive a thank you, you should reply by pointing out to your interlocutor how important and unique your working relationship is.
- For example, you might say, "It is part of the absolute dedication to the partners who work with our company."
- Alternatively, say, "That's what a reliable business partner does. Thank you for working with us."
- If you know a customer, you can personalize the message by saying, for example, "It's always a pleasure to work with you. I hope your product presentation goes well next week."
Step 3. "Imagine
It's the classic answer and it doesn't complicate things.
For example, when a business partner says: "Thank you for drawing up the contract", you can simply reply: "Don't worry!"
Step 4. Try a more expansive response if you are dealing with a customer or buyer
In these cases, it is preferable to convey appreciation for the trust received.
- Respond by saying: "Thank you for the trust you have placed in us." Use a sincere and affable tone to communicate to the customer that you are grateful they chose your company.
- He replies with: "Pleased to help you". This will show the client that you appreciate your work and are eager to help. If you are serving someone in a retail store and they thank you for explaining the features of a product to them, you might say, "I'm glad I was helpful."
Part 2 of 3: Responding to a Thank You via Email or Text Message
Step 1. Reply with an email considering your personality and the recipient
There is no standard rule for replying to an email thank you. The reply should fit the recipient's expectations and your personality.
- Take into account your character. If you are a talkative or very outgoing person, do not hesitate to write "please" or "it was a pleasure" in response to an e-mail or SMS expressing the sender's appreciation.
- Consider the recipient when replying via email or SMS. If you are young, you may not expect a reply to a thank you sent via text message or email. If she is of a certain age, expectations regarding formalities may vary, but she may very much appreciate a "please" as an answer.
- When replying to someone via email, avoid emoticons, smilies and other images. In some situations they can be too confidential.
Step 2. Please note that replying to a thank you email is considered discretionary
Consider your personality and the recipient. If you love talking to people, you might want to respond. However, if you are not very outgoing, you can also do without it.
Step 3. Respond to thank you emails when you wish to continue the conversation
For example, you could write "please" and move on to another topic.
- It is best to reply to a thank you email if it contains a question that needs to be answered. In this case, you can say "you're welcome" and reply.
- It is a good idea to respond to a thank you email if it contains a remark you want to counter. In this case, you might say "you're welcome" and then address the issue if you care about getting an elucidation.
Part 3 of 3: Responding to Thanksgiving in an Informal Context
Step 1. Respond by saying "you're welcome"
It is the most obvious and used answer when receiving a thank you. Indicate that you accept the gratitude of your interlocutor.
Avoid saying "you're welcome" in a sarcastic tone. Unless you want to imply that you would have preferred not to intervene or that you don't have a lot of respect for the person you are relating to, it is best to avoid sarcasm
Step 2. Thank you too
In this way, you will show that you are grateful for the contribution offered by your interlocutor. By responding with a "thank you", you will express your gratitude. However, don't say it repeatedly. It will only be enough once.
Step 3. Respond by saying "It was a pleasure"
By doing so, you will communicate joy in having done something useful. This phrase could be indicated in a five-star hotel, but also in other contexts.
For example, if a friend says to you, "Thank you so much for the delicious lunch you made!", You might reply with "It was a pleasure". This way you will convey the joy of having cooked for someone
Step 4. Reply:
"I know you would do the same for me." This sentence indicates that the relationship with your interlocutor is characterized by mutual availability. Also, emphasize that you are ready to help and inspire the other person to behave in the same way.
For example, if a friend says to you, "Thank you for helping me move into my new apartment this weekend. I don't know what I would have done without you!", You might reply, "I know you would do the same for me." In other words, you imply that there is a deep bond between you based on reciprocity
Step 5. Respond by saying "No problem"
This is a frequent response, but should be used in moderation, especially in the workplace. It indicates that what you did did not weigh on you. It may be fine in certain situations, but there is a risk that it limits the scope for interaction in building relationships.
- Reply with "no problem" only if it is true. Don't be afraid to accept the other person's gratitude if a job or a favor has taken away your time and energy.
- For example, you can say "no problem" if a friend thanks you for a small gesture, such as taking something from the trunk of the car.
- Avoid using this expression in a contemptuous tone, otherwise you will make it clear to your interlocutor that you have not worked hard enough to deserve his gratitude. A friend or colleague might think your relationship isn't important.
Step 6. Respond without being affected
If someone expresses gratitude to you in an informal setting or if relationships are confidential, you can respond in various ways. If you've done a small favor and need to respond quickly to a thank you, consider the following phrases.
- "That is fine". You should use this phrase in moderation, for example in situations where your interlocutor expresses his gratitude for a small gesture on your part. Like "no problem", you shouldn't say it in a sarcastic or contemptuous tone.
- "Whenever you want!". You also need this answer to assure the other person that they can count on your help. Indicate that you are willing to do her a favor at any time.
- "Glad to have helped you." It means that you are happy to have helped a friend or acquaintance with a certain job or task. For example, if a friend says to you, "Thank you for helping me set up the bookcase," you might say, "Glad I did!".
Step 7. Pay attention to how you use your body language
Facial expressions and body language can allow you to be sincere, pleasant and available in the eyes of others. When accepting a thank you, remember to smile. Make eye contact with your interlocutor and nod your head as he speaks. Avoid crossing your arms or looking away.
