Interview Thank-You Etiquette

A well-written thank-you note may help you get the job.

When conducting a job search, most candidates place emphasis on an impressive resume and good interviewing skills. One step that should never be overlooked in the process is sending a thank-you note after the interview. Certain rules of etiquette should be observed when completing this important task.

Purpose

Sending a thank-you note to an interviewer is a way of showing your gratitude for the time he spent with you. It is one of the last times that you'll be able to make an impression on the interviewer before he makes a decision on who to hire. It gives you a chance to solidify a connection that you made in the interview and reinforces that you are still interested in the position.

Benefits

After the interview, you'll know more about the position. You can impress the interviewer with your communication skills and professionalism and any personal features or training you believe make you the best fit for the position. It can be the final touch that helps you secure the position. A carefully written thank-you note shows organization and attention to detail. If you are not hired for that position, the note may make them think of you when other positions need to be filled.

Time

You should write the thank-you note as soon as possible to avoid forgetting any points from the interview that should be mentioned. You will want to send the note so that the interviewer receives it if possible within 24 hours of the interview, but not more than 48 hours after. If you wait any later, it is possible that the interviewer may get the impression that you are a procrastinator. Keep the thank-you not short and concise.

Contents

After first thanking the interviewer for their time, you should highlight points in your background or experience that make you the best candidate for the job. You should mention some specific topics that you spoke about with the interviewer. Take the opportunity to play up your strengths or minimize any weaknesses that may have been uncovered during the interview process. In the conclusion, always mention that you are looking forward to the next step in the employment process.

Considerations

Thank-you notes can be hand-written or typed. You may drop them off or send them through postal mail. Send a thank-you note by email if that is how you have previously communicated with the interviewer. Always send a thank-you note; neglecting to do so may give employers the impression that you are rude and inconsiderate. Send a letter to any individuals you met during the interview who are involved in the hiring process. If you send letters to different individuals, be sure that the content in all of them is different in case they decide to compare them.

References

• Northeastern University School of Law: Thank You Etiquette
• Quint Careers: Job Interview Thank-You Letter Formula
• Virginia Tech: Career Services: Interview Follow Up/Thank You Letters