When should we say 'Thanks' and when, 'Thank you'?

Question

While I'm communicating with my colleagues and clients, I used to say 'Thanks' and 'Thank you'. I normally use 'Thank you' when I want to express it to a single person usually through e-mails, otherwise I use 'Thanks' generally. To improve my communication methods, I just want to know explicitly when I should use 'Thank you' and when, 'Thanks'. Or, which is better professionally?

Answer 1

In a more formal setting, "Thank you" is wisest. If it's a small matter, such as when a colleague conveys information like "Jim just called" "Thanks" is okay. In a friendship type of setting, such as when a friend gives you advice, whether it is financial, marital, etc., and the advice is very useful, you might say, "Thanks a lot" or "Thank you very much."

Answer 2

'Thanks' is a more formal way of saying 'Thank you'. You would generally use 'Thanks' in person or in an email when talking to a family member, close friend, or in a casual conversation with a colleague. 'Thank you' is used when speaking in more formal conversations, such as in discussions or emails with your boss or clients. It shows a higher level of respect for the person and conversation.