Writing a thank you note after an interview may seem cliché or unnecessary, but it can really be the touch that sets you apart. Employers notice when a candidate takes the time to send a thank you email or a hand-written note through the mail. When a recruiter has met with so many people, a thank you note will help them remember who you are.
So what are the important points to remember when writing your thank you notes? Here’s a breakdown of the Who, What, When, Where, and Why to keep in mind:
Who: You should send a thank you note to every person you interviewed with. Be sure to collect business cards from each person during the interview process to ensure you have proper contact information.
What: Your thank you email or handwritten note should be brief (1 page or less) and should speak to important points you discussed in the interview. Be sure to thank the interviewer again for their time. If you interview with more than one person, personalize each note. And before sending anything along, make sure you proofread!
When: Send your thank you note within 24-48 hours of your interview, but avoid sending it immediately after from your phone. This may make your thanks seem impersonal and not as thoughtful as it is when you take the appropriate time to consider what to write in your note.
Where: Send your thank you note either via email or in hard copy by post to each interviewer.
Why: Not only is it courteous, but sending a thank you note will make you stand out from other candidates and will leave a positive impression on the recruiter.
Thankfulness shouldn’t just last one day or one week out of the year. Let’s try to show gratitude in all aspects of our lives, including our professional lives.
