How to Write a "Thank You Note" After a Job Interview

Writing a "thank you" note after a job interview can set you apart from the competition. Few people take the trouble to observe this bit of common courtesy.

Although it was the interviewer's job to talk to you, you should acknowledge that she was doing you a service and a favor by taking time to meet with you personally. A Thank You notes is just such acknowledgement.

Your Thank You notes should be hand written, speak specifically to some of the details of the interview and should be in the mail before midnight of the day of the interview.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Printed Thank You notes or cards.
• Matching envelopes.
• Postage stamps.
• The correct name, title and address of your interviewer.

1. Buy some high-quality, professionally-oriented Thank You notes before you begin the job interview process. If you have these on hand during the interviewing process, you will be much more likely to send a note than if you have to scrounge around after the interview is over.

2. Make sure you use business-oriented Thank You notes, not personal Thank You notes. Your interview attempts to project a professional image for you. Your thank you note should add to and support that professional image.

3. You note should be (legibly) hand written. The Thank You card itself should be professionally printed, but your note needs to be hand written to show that you have responded personally and not with the equivalent of a form letter.

4. You need to thank the interviewer for her time and for providing you such clear and useful information about the company. You should mention at least one thing that was very specific about the interview. For example, "I was very impressed with career development program you explained to me. By rotation new hires through various departments, I know that they develop a fuller appreciation for the other departments in the company."

5. End your Thank You note by promising to get back in touch to verify the next steps in the company's selection process.

6. And don't forget to get that note in the mail by midnight. Use a real stamp. It's tacky to steal postage from your current employer when sending a "thank you" note to your prospective employer.

Tips & Warnings

• Make copies of your thank you notes so that you can remember what you said if you talk to the interviewer again.
• Keep of record of when and where you send your thank you notes.

[highcloud]

on 8/27/2009 I always wondered what to say after an interview. thanks for the advice. 5*

[magnadea]

on 8/15/2009 Nice tips for writing a thank you note after a job interview. It isn't only just good etiquette, it really does set you apart in a tight job market. Thanks 5* and rec

[writeitout]

on 8/15/2009 This is something people forget to do. Thanks for the reminder, and great tips. 5*

[mrny]

on 8/14/2009 This is always a good thing to do after an interview. It shows your potential future employer how courteous and thoughtful you are. Nice tips!