A handwritten thank-you note elicits a far different emotional response than one typed, printed, and delivered using word processing software. Typed letters sometimes lack the distinctive personal touch of handwritten notes (Ren et al., 2018). People consider a handwritten thank-you note an authentic and unique way to convey their thanks. A handwritten message gives the receiver a sense of worth and appreciation since it takes time, effort, and personal connection to create.
Printed and typed thank-you notes, on the other hand, might come out as more professional and generic even though they are still heartfelt (Ren et al., 2018). Instead of genuinely expressing thanks, they might convey that the sender is going through the motions or carrying out a duty. A lack of personal touch might make the recipient feel detached from the sender, impacting the recipient’s emotional reaction.
A handwritten message of gratitude from President Reagan demonstrated the impact of a human touch. His handwritten letter exuded warmth and a deep feeling of connection despite his health issues and five years out of office (Ren et al., 2018). He had carefully considered the statement, significantly increasing its emotional effect.
President Reagan’s Thank-You Note as an Etiquette Instruction
There are several reasons why President Reagan’s thank-you note is a vital etiquette lesson. It first illustrates how crucial it is to recognize and show thankfulness. Expressing gratitude for actions, assistance, or favors is a cornerstone of good manners (Clay & Stearns, 2020). Reagan demonstrated grace and respect for the democratic process and the people he served by expressing gratitude to the American public for voting him president, even after he had left office. This reminds people around the country how important it is to value and appreciate civic involvement and public service.
Secondly, the letter demonstrated the proper protocol of openness and truthfulness. President Reagan made the private and delicate decision to inform the public about his diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (Clay & Stearns, 2020). This choice not only demonstrated his dedication to transparency but also sparked conversations about Alzheimer’s, lowering stigma and increasing awareness. It underlined how important it is to be honest and open in public, especially in difficult situations.
Thirdly, the letter expressed solidarity and a standard set of principles (Clay & Stearns, 2020). Reagan highlighted the shared values that bind the United States in his thank-you message, expressing his profound affection for the country and its people. Since it promotes a sense of community and togetherness, this sense of unanimity and shared ideals is a crucial component of etiquette.
The Expressing of Humility by President Reagan in the Thank-You Note
The thank-you message from President Reagan was humble in several respects. First of all, he showed sensitivity and humility by publicly disclosing his Alzheimer’s diagnosis (Skinner et al., 2004). Many famous personalities may decide to keep such personal concerns secret, particularly those who have served as president. Reagan, however, showed humility by revealing his illness and realizing the significance of addressing a serious public health concern as well as his vulnerability.
In addition, the letter’s statement of thanks demonstrated his humility. He expressed gratitude to the American people for choosing him and enabling him to serve, even with his distinguished position as a former president (Skinner et al., 2004). This little deed was a reminder that nobody is exempt from the requirement to express thanks or be grateful. It also highlighted his profound gratitude for the honor of serving the nation and helped to humanize him.
Because of his humility in the thank-you message, President Reagan gained the public’s trust (Skinner et al., 2004). It demonstrated that even in the latter stages of his career and in the face of a complex medical situation, he remained modest and appreciative. His impact was further enhanced by the public’s appreciation of his relatability and humility.
Impact on How US Residents View President Reagan’s Professional Image
The impression of President Reagan’s professional image among US citizens was greatly influenced by his thank-you message. It strengthened the perception of Reagan as a kind, considerate, and appreciative leader even after his tenure in government (Bachik & bin Haji Mohamed, 1996). The message was a heartbreaking reminder of the end of his administration, which many Americans remembered with respect and love.
Reagan’s personal touch, the handwritten thank-you note, humanized him and increased his popular appeal (Bachik & bin Haji Mohamed, 1996). It sent the sense that he was a person who genuinely cared about the country and its citizens, not simply a remote figure from the past. This impression helped to create a lasting and favorable impression of his professional demeanor.
His reputation as a president who cherished democracy and the American people was further reinforced by the note (Bachik & bin Haji Mohamed, 1996). Reagan reiterated his commitment to the democratic process by expressing gratitude to the people for their support and confidence. Those who respected him found resonance in this devotion, which enhanced his professional reputation.
References
Ren, X., Xia, L., & Du, J. (2018). Delivering warmth by hand: Customer responses to different formats of written communication. Journal of Services Marketing, 32(2), 223-234.
Clay, R., & Stearns, P. N. (2020). Do not Forget to Say “Thank You”: Toward a Modern History of Gratitude. Journal of Social History, 53(4), 1060–1083.
Skinner, K. K., Anderson, A., & Anderson, M. (2004). Reagan: A life in letters. Simon and Schuster.
Bachik, J., & bin Haji Mohamed, M. J. B. (1996). A Rhetorical Criticism and Analysis of President Ronald Reagan’s Inaugural Address: Applying the Burkeian Dramatistic Pentad Approach.
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