Here are five tips to help you craft a thoughtful, personalized note that sets you apart: 

Send a hand-written note—when you can.

In today’s digital world, hand-written cards stand out. However, they can take a long time to reach their recipients. A good rule of thumb is to choose hand-written cards when you’re able to drop them off in person. That way, you can guarantee they’re delivered on time and to the correct inbox. In some cases, such as after interviews, hiring decisions are made quickly. A thank-you email works just as well in these situations.

Address each person individually.

If you shadowed or interviewed with more than one person, send a personalized thank-you note to everyone. One exception to this rule is if you interviewed with a large group. In this instance, it’s OK to thank the hiring manager and the selection committee together. By extending your thanks to the whole team, you’re letting them know that you appreciate everyone’s time.

Keep the body short and sweet.

This shows you’re being mindful of the recipient’s time. Thank the person for taking the time to interview you, let you shadow them or write you a letter of recommendation—and move on. Just one or two sentences here are all you need.

Mention at least one specific detail.

It could be something you learned from your experience, an “aha” moment you had or a conversation that stuck out to you. This part of the thank-you note gives a personal touch and demonstrates to the recipient that you were present during the experience.

Sign off professionally.

Thank the recipient one last time and follow it with your name. You should also add relevant contact information such as your phone number or email address. If you’re sending a thank-you note via email, including a professional email signature is a good idea. You can even add links to your online portfolio or social media pages if they’re appropriate.

Here are some tips on how to establish relationships with faculty members from a distance.

Introduce yourself

Before the semester begins, send your professor a quick email letting them know you’re looking forward to their class. If the syllabus is available, point out a couple chapters that sound especially interesting to you. Even if a few weeks have already gone by, know that mid semester isn’t too late to say hello.

Read the syllabus

Understand and follow all course policies and procedures. It’s a good idea to utilize all your resources before emailing your professor questions. Asking a question with an answer that’s readily available can come across as unprepared. Before hitting send, make sure the answer isn’t in the syllabus.

Attend class “live,” if possible

Some classes are still meeting, just virtually. If you’re able, watch your lectures in real time. This gives you the opportunity to participate and your professor the chance to put a face to your name.

Participate in interactive activities

Respond to posts on your class’s discussion board and show up to virtual office hours, even if it’s optional. You can use these opportunities to ask insightful questions about the material or get help with a topic that’s challenging you. Either way, this shows you’re taking initiative.

Be a good student

Turn in your assignments early or on time and avoid asking for extensions or special treatment. Don’t forget to proofread your work. This shows strong writing skills and attention to detail. Finally, try your best. Your professors will remember the effort you put into their classes.

Navigating professional relationships online can be tricky. While it may feel a little awkward and unnatural at first, reaching out to your professors now will pay off in the future.