Job Interview Thank-You Etiquette
If you've recently gone on a job interview and want to continue making a good impression on those in charge of the hiring, it's best to express your thanks for the interview in a timely manner. Extending this courtesy could help you land the job, but it's important to do so according to proper etiquette.
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Being Prompt
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It's best to send a thank-you note to an interviewer a day or two after the meeting. Waiting longer than this will give the impression that you're no longer interested in the job. The note can be mailed directly to the hiring manager and is an ideal way to show professionalism and gratitude, two qualities you want to convey. While emailing thank-you notes would seem easier or more practical these days, mailing the note shows you're willing to put a little more effort into things.
Writing the Note
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While most thank-you notes should be handwritten, it is best to type a thank-you note for an interview, as the note is for professional purposes. Typing will make the note especially legible and will give it a polished appearance. The note should express your appreciation to the hiring manager for taking time to meet with you. It is also appropriate to subtly mention in the note your enthusiasm concerning the job and the asset you would be to the company.
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Paper for Thank-Yous
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While you can send your thank-you in the form of a card (without flashy borders or font), it is also acceptable to print the note on the same paper you would use for a resume or cover letter. This is a clear indication that the note is for business purposes. The paper should be presentable but not too flashy. A simple border is appropriate, as well as adding one's name and address to the top of the note.
Signing the Note
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Even though it is recommended that post-interview thank-you notes be typed, it is appropriate to include a handwritten signature at the bottom. This lets the interviewer know that the note is directly from you. It's important to use your best handwriting and to write a signature that is easy to read. Your name, typed, can appear below the signature.
Following Up
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If you were not informed of the follow-up procedures concerning the job after being interviewed, the thank-you letter is the perfect way to inquire about this. Politely ask the interviewer how long the company expects to deliberate, or when you should expect to hear back. If follow-up details were told to you at the interview and you haven't heard anything for a week or more, it is appropriate to inquire about the status of the job with an email or phone call. Mention your name, the name of the person who interviewed you and the date of your interview. This shows you are still seriously considering the position.
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