How to Write a Thank-You Letter After a Job Interview
A thank-you letter is a simple but important part of the job interview process. By sending a thank-you letter, you are conveying your professionalism while solidifying your interest in the position. The University of Berkeley Law School Career Center explains that a thank-you letter can also be "one more opportunity to impress an employer." Because your thank-you letter may become part of your application packet, treat it like any other professional document, and proofread it carefully before sending it.
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Instructions
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Send the letter as soon as possible. The Virginia Tech Career Services Center suggests that you send your thank-you letter within two days of your interview. A typed letter sent by mail is ideal, but it is also acceptable to send a thank-you email, particularly if you have been communicating with the company electronically throughout the interviewing process.
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Direct the letter to your interviewer. If you do not remember your interviewer's name, or if you met with a panel, call the company to confirm the names and titles of the employees with whom you met. This will personalize the letter and show that you pay attention to detail.
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Thank your interviewer by name. Since the purpose of a thank-you letter is to express your gratitude for the company's consideration, begin the letter by thanking your interviewers for their time.
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Reiterate why you think you are a good fit for the position. Your thank-you letter is also an opportunity to make your case for why you are the best candidate. Although it is not necessary to restate your full credentials and work history, it is beneficial to highlight your professional skills and strengths in a paragraph or less.
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Address any concerns that came up during the interview. If the interviewer had any questions or concerns about your qualifications or suitability for the position, address these issues in your thank-you letter. Keep these remarks brief and positive.
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Write about any information that you did not get the opportunity to discuss. Trinity College Career Center suggests adding one or two sentences that highlight relevant skills or experiences that did not come up during the interview. For example, if you did not have the time to talk about your older work experiences that directly relate to the new position, your thank-you letter is a good place to talk about them.
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Include any additional materials that your interviewer requested. If the interviewer asked for a reference list, transcripts, writing sample or any other materials during your interview, include them with the cover letter.
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Tips & Warnings
Send a thank-you letter for all interviews, including phone interviews and second interviews.
References
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