The “Thank-You-for-the-Favor” Gift

How many times have you asked someone—or been asked yourself—to do a favor? Many, I’m sure. From helping with a move, to picking up from the airport, or even helping with a project around the house, when you ask a friend for a favor, it’s always good to show proper appreciation for their assistance. While favors should not come with strings attached, some favors are bigger than others, or become bigger than you plan, so it’s only proper to say, “thank you,” even if your friend says, “No, please, I don’t want anything!”

For times like these, I say, “Who cares what they think?” I’m going to do something special for them anyway. But keep in mind it’s not about matching said favor one-to-one or giving your friend a monetary amount for their labor. When you say thanks to a friend for a favor, I recommend doing something so thoughtful that giving it to them makes you feel even better than they do upon receiving it.

See Also: Gift Giving Etiquette

One example comes from a friend of mine, Brad. Brad’s friend, Mike, helped Brad hook up computers to his new office. Brad had six rooms (along with a lobby) that all needed to be wired. Brad went ahead and purchased the supplies, and Mike was more than happy to help out, especially since he’s pretty much the smartest guy in the world when it comes to computers. Even though the task was not stressful for Mike, it still took time out of his life and away from his family.

Even though Brad’s free pizza and drinks during the office visit were nice, Brad had more in mind (and yes, Mike said he did not need anything). So what did Brad do? He thought long and hard about what Mike really likes and gave Mike something that he knew Mike would love, and that he’d feel great about giving. Brad went online and bought Mike a framed and artist- autographed, original cartoon cell from his favorite cartoon growing up. 

See Also:  The Rules of Regifting

Not only was this gift incredibly thoughtful, but it was also the most unique gift anyone I know has given to someone just for doing them a “favor”  without breaking the bank. Sure, Brad could have just left the “thank you” at pizza, but he also wanted to do something special since his friend was doing such a great thing for him.

A thank-you gift for a “favor” does not have to be over-the-top expensive, and you shouldn’t feel you have to wow someone with the most unique gift. Nevertheless, when someone lends you a hand, show proper appreciation by thanking them with a little bit more than a generic Starbucks gift card.

Giving Gift photo from Shutterstock.