Have you ever wondered how to leave a lasting, positive impression after an interview?
What if the secret to turning that job interview into a firm offer lies not in your resume or in the interview room but in a simple thank you note?
This article will guide you through how to write a memorable thank you note after an interview, providing you with real-life examples and leading you step-by-step to show your professional courtesy.
The Importance of a Thank You Note
Impressing a potential employer doesn’t stop when the interview ends.
By sending a professionally written thank you note, you can leave a remarkable impact on your interviewer, increase your chances of landing a job, and show your commitment to good business manners.
Why Send a Thank You Note?
- Keeps you top of mind: Too often, candidates disappear off the radar after the interview. A thank you note makes you stand out and allows you to stay fresh in the interviewer’s mind.
- Demonstrates your commitment: Experts agree that a thank you note displays your enthusiasm and commitment to the position, two factors that can highly influence a hiring decision.
- Adds a personal touch: A properly written thank you note can provide a personal touch – reminding the employer not only of your competence but also your character.
Crafting the Perfect Thank You Note
Writing an effective thank you note requires a blend of sincerity, professional etiquette, and personal style.
Here’s how to embark on this journey.
1. The Salutation
Make sure to address the interviewer by their proper title and surname, showing respect and attention to detail.
If the interview had a casual ambiance or you’ve been in constant back-and-forths, you might opt for the first name.
2. Expressing Gratitude
The essence of your note is to express gratitude, so make this your first point.
Thank the interviewer for their time and the opportunity. Personalize this section – relate it to something specific discussed in the interview if possible.
3. Reinforce Your Interest and Qualifications
After thanking your interviewer, reinforce your interest in the position and the company.
Demonstrate your qualifications again succinctly, relating them to the key responsibilities of the job or company mission.
4. The Close
Conclude your note with a again expressing your gratitude and anticipation of the next step.
Sign off professionally using ‘Sincerely’, ‘Best regards’, or other cordial closings, followed by your full name.
Thank You Note Examples
Crafting a perfect thank you note is easier with some concrete examples.
Example for an in-person interview:
Subject: Thank you for the opportunity, [Interviewer’s Name]
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for the opportunity to discuss the [Job Position] role at [Company Name] today. Our conversation about [specific topic discussed] further cemented my interest in contributing to [Company Name’s] goals.
I believe that my experience in [mention a skill or job where this has been used] positions me well to make a meaningful contribution to [Company name]. I look forward to hopefully working with you and your team in the future.
Once again, Thank you for considering my application. I anticipate the next steps in the hiring process.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example for a phone or video interview:
Subject: Appreciating our conversation, [Interviewer’s Name]
Hello [Interviewer’s Name],
I am grateful for the chance to speak with you today about the [Job Position] role at [Company Name]. Our discussion about [specific topic discussed] gave me even more confidence in my fit for the team.
Given my background in [mention relevant experience], I am excited about the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] and helping achieve our shared goals.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to learning more about the next steps.
Best Regards,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
A thank you note is not just polite – it’s a powerful tool to make sure you won’t be forgotten after a job interview.
By showing your gratitude to the interviewer, you demonstrate your professionalism and eagerness for the role.
Hopefully, this guide and examples contribute to you getting the job you’ve been longing for.
What better time to begin honing your thank you note skills than today? Who knows? Your perfect job may just be a thank you note away!
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
FAQs – How to Write a Thank You Note After an Interview?
Why should I write a thank you note after an interview?
Writing a thank you note after an interview allows you to express your gratitude for the opportunity, make a positive impression, and reinforce your interest in the job or company. It shows courtesy, professionalism, and can help you stand out from other candidates.
When should I send the thank you note post-interview?
As a general rule, send your thank you note within 24 hours of your interview. This shows that you are proactive and enthusiastic about the opportunity.
How should I deliver my thank you note?
The two most common methods are email and postal mail. An email is delivered instantly and allows for a quick follow-up, while a postal mail, though less timely, adds a personal touch.
What should I include in my thank you note?
Begin with an expression of gratitude for the interview opportunity. You can then reinforce your interest in the role and the company, highlight relevant skills, and recap points from your interview that you believe went particularly well.
Should I customize my thank you note based on my interview?
Yes. Ensure each thank you note is specific and personalized according to the conversation in your interview. Mentioning these details shows you were attentive and interested in the discussion.
Can I mention anything I forgot to say during my interview in the thank you note?
Yes, the thank you note provides an opportunity to address a point you may have forgotten to mention or clarify during your interview.
Can I ask for the job in my thank you note?
It’s appropriate to reinforce your interest in the job, but avoid bluntly asking for the job. Frame your interest by saying how excited you are about the job and the prospect of contributing to the company.
What should be the general tone of the thank you note?
The tone should be professional, positive and engaging. It’s important to remember the thank you note is an extension of the interview and it’s crucial to maintain the same level of formality and professionalism.
How long must the thank you note be?
A thank you note should be concise and straight to the point, typically between 3 to 5 paragraphs. Respect the interviewer’s time–they very likely have multiple roles to fill and may not have the luxury of reading a lengthy letter.
Do I need to send a thank you note if I’ve decided the job isn’t a good fit for me?
Even if you’ve decided not to pursue the job, it is still considered good manners and professional etiquette to send a thank you note. This can maintain a positive relationship with the company, which may be beneficial for future opportunities.