Thanksgiving lands on October 13 this year, making it the perfect time for Canadian business owners to reflect and recognize the people who help their businesses thrive. Now is the time to put your “Thank You” plan into place.
Acknowledging others isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s also good business. Appreciation fuels loyalty, boosts morale, and strengthens relationships. Being appreciated is one of the most powerful emotional needs we have, right up there with love and acceptance. When people feel valued, they’re more likely to treat others with the same respect and, from a business perspective, support you again and again.
Here are a few creative ways to express appreciation to your customers, employees, volunteers, suppliers, delivery persons, referral sources, strategic alliances, etc.
1. Send Handwritten Notes
A thoughtful, handwritten card stands out in today’s digital world. Whether it’s to a long-time client or a hard-working staff member, a personal message goes a long way.
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Mention something specific about their contribution
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Keep the tone warm and sincere
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Include a quote or personal memory if appropriate
(I’ll share a personal story of a friend, with her permission of course. In the 80’s her boss gave her a Thank You card with a lottery ticket inside and a handwritten note, “You’re worth more than a million dollars to me and I hope this ticket proves it.” The ticket wasn’t worth a million, but the words from her boss were. She still has that card and will keep it for life.)
2. Surprise Small Gifts or Treats
It doesn’t have to be extravagant—a gift card to a local coffee shop or a box of seasonal goodies can brighten someone’s day.
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Choose locally sourced items to support other small businesses
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Add a thank-you tag with their name for an extra personal touch
3. Social Media Shout-Outs
Publicly acknowledging staff, partners, or clients can be incredibly meaningful.
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Share a post featuring their work or support
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Tag them and express your gratitude in a few heartfelt words
4. Host a Gratitude Lunch or Coffee Hour
Gather your team, top clients, or delivery staff for a casual drop-in with coffee, cider, and pumpkin treats.
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Use the opportunity to say a few words of thanks
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Give out thank-you cards or tokens as they leave
- Ask them to share what they’re grateful for
5. Create a “Wall of Thanks”
In your office or online, feature photos and notes about those you’re thankful for. This visual reminder can uplift everyone who sees it.
This Thanksgiving, remember that a heartfelt “thank you” can build more than goodwill—it can build lasting relationships that help your business (and you personally) grow.
We Thank You!
It’s not Thanksgiving yet, but we at Compass CPA want to express to you at every opportunity that WE APPRECIATE YOU and Thank You for your support, feedback, suggestions, for trusting us with one of your most valuable assets, and for the respect and contributions you provide to our team that allow us to serve you in the best way possible.
