Crafting a Perfect Thank You Note for After Interview
jillianhunt
July 20, 2023 9:41 pm
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12 min read
After completing an interview for a job, it’s essential to follow up by sending a thank you note for after interview. This simple gesture can make a lasting impression on the interviewer, showing your gratitude for the opportunity to interview.
Writing a professional thank you letter after interview can be daunting, but it’s a crucial step in the job search process. In the following sections, we will discuss the importance of sending a thank you note, choosing the right format, the elements of an effective thank you note, dos and don’ts of writing a thank you note, and sample thank you note after interview. We will also address sending your thank you note in a timely manner, following up after sending it, thank you note etiquette for virtual interviews, and frequently asked questions about thank you notes for after interview.
The Importance of Sending a Thank You Note
After interviewing for a job, sending a thank you note is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. Not only does it show appreciation for the interviewer’s time, but it also gives you an opportunity to reiterate your interest in the position and highlight any key points that you might have missed during the interview.
A professional thank you letter after an interview can set you apart from other candidates by demonstrating your attention to detail and willingness to go above and beyond. It also gives you a chance to make a final impression before the hiring decision is made.
The Importance of Sending a Thank You Note
- Shows appreciation for the interviewer’s time
- Reiterates your interest in the position
- Highlights key points that may have been missed during the interview
- Sets you apart from other candidates
- Demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism
- Gives you a chance to make a final impression
Choosing the Right Format for Your Thank You Note
When it comes to sending a thank you note after an interview, there are a few different formats you can use depending on your personal preference and the company culture. Here are some options:
Email is a popular choice for sending thank you notes as it is quick and convenient. If you want to ensure a speedy delivery and quick response, an email may be the best option. To make your email stand out, personalize it and use a professional tone. Make sure to double-check for typos and errors before hitting send.
Handwritten Note
A handwritten note can make a memorable impression and show that you put in extra effort. It’s best to send it within 24 hours of the interview, using high-quality stationary or a card. Keep your note concise and express your gratitude for the opportunity to interview for the position.
Typed Letter
A typed letter is a more formal option that can be printed on company letterhead. It’s a good choice if you are interviewing for a high-level position or in a conservative industry. Keep the letter brief and professional, thanking the interviewer for their time and reiterating your interest in the position.
Ultimately, the format you choose for your thank you note should align with your personal style and the company culture. Regardless of the format you choose, focus on expressing your appreciation and reiterating your interest in the position.
Elements of an Effective Thank You Note
An effective thank you note should be concise, professional, and personalized. Here are some elements to include:
Gratitude
Express your gratitude for the interviewer’s time and for the opportunity to interview for the position.
Recap
Recap some of the key points discussed during the interview to show that you were actively listening and engaged during the conversation.
Reinforcement
Reinforce your interest in the position and the company. Use this as an opportunity to demonstrate your excitement and enthusiasm for the role.
Customization
Customize your thank you note to the specifics of your interview. Reference specific moments or conversations that stood out to you during the interview process.
Tone
Ensure that the tone of your thank you note is professional and respectful. Avoid being too informal or overly enthusiastic.
By including these elements in your thank you note, you can create a lasting impression on your interviewer and enhance your chances of landing the job.
Dos and Don’ts of Writing a Thank You Note
After the interview, taking the time to send a thank you note is a must. However, it is important to do it right. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do personalize the message
Avoid sending generic messages that could have been sent to anyone. Make sure to address the interviewer by name and mention specific topics you discussed during the interview.
Don’t wait too long to send it
Make sure to send your thank you note within 24 hours after the interview. Waiting too long can make it seem insincere or even like an afterthought.
Do keep it concise
Your thank you note should be short and sweet. Keep it to one or two paragraphs, and avoid rambling or going off-topic.
Don’t make it sound like a sales pitch
Your thank you note is not the place to try and sell yourself further. Avoid making it sound like a desperate plea for the job.
Do proofread it
Double and triple-check your note for typos and errors. A poorly written thank you note can undo all the hard work you put into the interview.
- Do personalize the message
- Don’t wait too long to send it
- Do keep it concise
- Don’t make it sound like a sales pitch
- Do proofread it
Following these dos and don’ts will help ensure that your thank you note is well-received and makes a positive impression on the interviewer.
Sample Thank You Note After Interview
Dear [Interviewer Name],
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me and discuss the [position] role at [company]. I appreciate the opportunity to learn more about the company’s goals and values, and how my experience aligns with them.
Our conversation about [specific topic discussed during the interview] was insightful, and I look forward to bringing my skills and knowledge to the [project/team/department] we discussed.
Thank you again for considering me for this position and for your time. I hope to have the opportunity to speak with you again soon.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Note: Remember to personalize your thank you note to reflect on the specifics of your interview and the individuals you met with.
Sending Your Thank You Note in a Timely Manner
Timing is everything when it comes to sending a thank you note after an interview. It’s important to act quickly while your conversation with the interviewer is still fresh in their mind. Sending your thank you note within 24 hours after the interview is essential to make a good impression.
When it comes to email thank you notes, sending it the same day as your interview can be appropriate. If you decide to send a handwritten note, make sure to allow for enough time for it to be delivered. Sending it within two days after the interview is ideal.
Don’t Wait Too Long to Send Your Thank You Note
A delayed thank you note can send the wrong message. It could suggest that you’re not interested in the job or that you’re not good with deadlines. In some cases, you may even miss out on an opportunity because you took too long to express your gratitude.
Remember, the thank you note is not only a way to show gratitude, but it also serves as a follow-up to keep yourself in the interviewer’s mind and reinforce your interest in the position.
Following Up After Sending Your Thank You Note
After sending your thank you note, it is important to follow up with the interviewer to further express your interest in the position and reiterate your qualifications. This can set you apart from other candidates and keep you top of mind for the hiring manager.
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When to Follow Up
It is appropriate to follow up within a week of sending your thank you note. If you haven’t heard back from the interviewer within that time frame, you can send a polite email or make a phone call to check on the status of your application.
What to Say
When following up, keep your message brief and professional. Reiterate your excitement about the position and express your gratitude for the opportunity to interview. Ask if there are any updates on the hiring process and if there is anything else you can provide to help with the decision-making process.
Examples
- Example Email: Dear [Interviewer’s Name], I just wanted to follow up and check on the status of my application for the [Position Title] role. I truly enjoyed meeting with you and the team and am excited about the possibility of joining [Company Name]. Please let me know if there are any updates on the hiring process or if there is anything else I can provide to assist in the decision making process. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Name]
- Example Phone Call: Hi [Interviewer’s Name], this is [Your Name]. I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Position Title] role and see if there are any updates on the hiring process. I really enjoyed meeting with you and the team and am very interested in the opportunity to join [Company Name]. Please let me know if there is anything else I can provide or if you need any further information from me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Remember to be polite, professional, and respectful of the interviewer’s time. Following up shows that you are enthusiastic about the position and have a strong interest in working for the company.
Thank You Note Etiquette for Virtual Interviews
With the rise of remote work and virtual interviews, it’s important to know the proper etiquette for sending a thank you note after your virtual interview.
1. Send your thank you note promptly
Just like with an in-person interview, you should send your thank you note as soon as possible after a virtual interview. This will show your appreciation and keep you top of mind for the hiring manager.
2. Use the right format
The format of your thank you note should match the format of the interview. If you had a video call, consider sending a follow-up email. If you communicated through a messaging platform, send a message through that same platform.
3. Be specific in your thank you note
Mention specific details from the interview, such as projects or skills discussed, to show that you were engaged and paying attention during the interview.
4. Avoid technical difficulties
Make sure to double-check your internet connection and technology before sending your thank you note. You don’t want your thank you message to be delayed or lost due to technical difficulties.
5. Keep it professional
Just like with any other thank you note, keep your message professional and avoid using overly casual language or emojis. This is still a part of the interview process and your thank you note should reflect that.
6. Personalize your message
Take the time to personalize your message and show your appreciation for the interviewer’s time and consideration. This will make your thank you note stand out and leave a positive impression.
FAQ about Thank You Notes for After Interview
After a job interview, it’s essential to send a thank you note to show your gratitude for the opportunity and to reiterate your interest in the position. However, it’s common to have questions about crafting the perfect thank you note. Here are some frequently asked questions about thank you notes for after interview:
When should I send my thank you note?
You should send your thank you note within 24 hours of your interview. This shows that you are prompt and organized, and it keeps you fresh in the interviewer’s mind. If you interviewed on a Friday, it’s acceptable to send your thank you note on Monday.
Should I send a handwritten note or an email?
An email is generally the preferred method of sending a thank you note after an interview because it’s fast and efficient. However, if you feel that a handwritten note aligns with the culture of the company or the industry, it’s perfectly acceptable to send one. Make sure your handwriting is legible and that you use high-quality stationery.
What should I include in my thank you note?
Your thank you note should be brief and to the point. Start by thanking the interviewer for their time and for the opportunity to interview. Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly summarize why you are a good fit for the role. Lastly, thank them again and express your enthusiasm for the next steps in the process.
Is it necessary to send a thank you note after a phone or virtual interview?
Yes, it’s still important to send a thank you note after a phone or virtual interview. Follow the same guidelines as you would for an in-person interview, and make sure to include specific details from the conversation to show that you were engaged and attentive.
What if I forgot to send a thank you note?
If you forgot to send a thank you note, it’s better late than never. Send a brief note as soon as possible to apologize for the delay and to express your gratitude for the interview.
Can I use the same thank you note for multiple interviewers?
No, it’s best to personalize your thank you note for each interviewer. Take notes during the interview to remind yourself of specific topics or conversations, and use those details to customize your thank you note.
Should I follow up after sending my thank you note?
If you haven’t heard back from the interviewer within a week or two, it’s appropriate to follow up with a polite email or phone call to inquire about the status of your application. However, avoid being pushy or demanding, as this can be seen as a negative trait.
By sending a well-crafted and timely thank you note after your interview, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and increase your chances of landing the job.
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