Dispatch your thanks within one to three days of the good deed.
If you're really late sending off your note, don't give any excuses. Moaning about how busy you are undermines the gesture. Don't mention it at all, says Letitia Baldrige.
Be creative about how you say thanks. Think outside the flower box. Or the mailbox. Or the chocolate box.
Do a little investigating. Call a few mutual friends to find out if the generous person has a hobby or an interest. Proceed accordingly.
Don't send booze to people who don't drink. Baldrige suggests giving a fancy-food item instead.
If you're sending flowers, make sure the recipient or someone in the house will be there to accept them. No one wants to return from a vacation or a business trip to find a bouquet of dead flowers.
If you're not sure whether you were generous enough with your initial show of gratitude, send a follow-up card at holiday time.
