9 Standard Ways to Show Your Clients You are Thankful for Them This Thanksgiving Season

By Dr. Mary C. Kelly, Economist, Leadership Expert, and U.S. Navy Commander (Ret.)

The Thanksgiving season is the perfect time to slow down, reflect, and say something we do not say nearly often enough in business:

“Thank you.”

Clients are not just revenue lines — they are relationships. They are the people who believe in your work, trust your expertise, and make your business possible.

So, as you count your blessings this November, here are nine thoughtful, professional ways to show your clients you are profoundly grateful for them.

These ideas are just reminders – you are probably doing these anyway, like having pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving. But just in case….

1. Write a Handwritten Thank-You Note

Emails are easy. Handwritten notes are rare — and that is what makes them powerful.

A personal, sincere note stands out in a world of automation. Write one or two sentences about something specific you appreciate: a partnership milestone, their trust, or how much you enjoy working with them.

Real ink still matters.

2. Pick Up the Phone and Say the Words

In a world of texts and emails, a simple phone call is a standout gesture.

Call a few top clients just to say, “I appreciate you. Thank you for your partnership this year.”

It does not have to be long. Even a 90-second call can deepen connection and trust.

People remember how you made them feel.

3. Send a Thoughtful, Useful Gift

The best gifts are not expensive, they are meaningful.

Send something practical and personal: a book that inspired you, a local specialty treat, or a donation in their name to a charity they care about.

If you know them well, tailor it. If you do not, choose something universally appreciated, like a gourmet coffee sampler or a handwritten card with a small gift card for a favorite restaurant.

4. Spotlight Your Clients

Public recognition goes a long way.

Highlight a client on your social media, in your newsletter, or on your website (with permission). Share how you have worked together, celebrate their success, and thank them for being part of your community.

Gratitude and visibility are powerful partners.

5. Host a Gratitude Gathering

Host a simple open house, appreciation breakfast, or virtual coffee chat where clients can connect with you and with each other.

It is not a sales pitch. It is a thank-you event.
A chance to say, “We wouldn’t be here without you.”

Connection builds loyalty, and loyalty drives long-term success.

6. Give the Gift of Value

One of the best ways to show appreciation is by helping your clients succeed.

Send them a free resource — a checklist, guide, or exclusive leadership tip that makes their life easier or their business better.

Your expertise is a gift. Share it generously.

7. Refer Them Business

Referrals are one of the most meaningful ways to express gratitude.

If you can introduce a client to a new customer, collaborator, or opportunity, you are showing them that you value their success as much as your own.

Gratitude in business is not just about words – it is about helping others grow.

8. Share Specific Appreciation

Generic “thanks for your business” messages do not create impact. Specific ones do.

Say, “I really appreciate how responsive your team has been,” or “Thank you for trusting us with that project.”

When people feel seen, they feel valued — and they will remember how you recognized their effort.

9. Keep the Gratitude Going All Year-Round

The best relationships are built on consistent appreciation, not just seasonal gestures.

Make gratitude part of your business culture, not just a November tradition.

Send thank you notes after projects. Acknowledge milestones. Celebrate birthdays or anniversaries.

Consistent gratitude builds trust that is unshakable.

Thanksgiving is more than a holiday. It is a mindset.

When you take time to thank the people who make your success possible, you strengthen relationships, build loyalty, and remind everyone (including yourself) that business is about people first.

So, this season, write the note. Make the call. Send the gift. Share the gratitude.

Because appreciation does not just make others feel good — it makes you a better leader.