5. Address with respect.

Not sure whom to thank? A good rule of thumb for birthdays, showers, weddings and other "gift" occasions is to address your thank you note to the person who signed your gift card. Address the card to both husband and wife if both of their names were on your gift. Children living in the home of the couple should be recognized in the inside salutation or body of your thank you note. Tip: if you received a wedding gift from your young adult cousin who does not live with Aunt Sally and Uncle Harry -- send them their own thank you note. It is NOT okay to tell Aunt Sally and Uncle Harry to thank them for you. If you don't know the address, call somebody or try Googling it. For business associates, job interviews, and pretty much anyone older than you that you don't know very well -- err on the side of formality. Envelopes should definitely use Mr. or Mrs. and the person's last name. To address a business woman, if you're not sure whether she is married or what title she prefers, it is best to use Ms. as the title. If you don't feel comfortable with that, you may use just her first and last name together. Try not to use anyone's first name in the salutation of your letter unless they have given you permission to do so.

So you see, proper thank you etiquette is not rocket science. For most of us, the standard manners our parents and teachers gave us should do the trick. The key is remembering those manners -- and more importantly, acting on them. Whenever someone gives you a present or does something nice for you, such as preparing dinner or babysitting in a pinch, recognize that kindness. Don't delay. A little appreciation goes a long way!

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