Don’t Forget Your Post-Interview Thank You

You just left an interview feeling confident about the impression you made on a potential employer. Here’s why sending a thank-you note to your interviewer should be your next step.

Why should I send a thank-you note?

It is extremely important to send a thank you letter as a follow-up to an interview. Sure, we’re all busy, but it takes very little time to sit down and write a few words. And it costs—at a minimum—the price of a stamp. The note should be thoughtful and contain at least one reference to the interview. Comment once again on what particularly makes you a good fit for the position, thank them for their time, and express your excitement about the opportunity.

How should I structure my thank-you message?

Ensure the letter is professional and carries the right tone—you are thanking a prospective employer for their time, not sending a note to a friend. This thank-you can be a critical component of the post-interview process—one that can separate you from other qualified candidates. Most experts claim that sending a note within 24 hours of finishing the interview will maximize your odds of success.

Is it appropriate to send a thank-you note via email?

Sending a note via email depends on the circumstances of your situation. In some cases, email messages will suffice—especially if you know that your interviewer is working from home. If things appear to be moving quickly and there may not be time to send a letter through the mail, email can present an appropriate alternative. However, email messages often come across as more relaxed and informal, so make sure the note sounds professional and strikes the right tone.

What should I do before I send my thank-you note?

Before you seal the envelope shut or hit the send button, proofread your message and check for spelling or grammatical errors. This is a critical step, as the letter is a direct reflection of you. You don’t want the interviewer’s lasting impression to be negative due to a silly mistake.

Does sending a thank-you note ensure that I will get the job?

Of course, the answer is no. However, even if you don’t land the position, you’ve met a new contact and possibly formed a new relationship. By leaving a strong impression on your interviewer, you’ll enhance your odds of being called back for future opportunities down the road.

Post-interview thank-you note example

Dear [insert name of interviewer],

Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the [insert name of position] role at [insert name of company]. I enjoyed our discussion about [insert something relevant that you talked about during your interview]. As stated during my interview, I remain interested in exploring this opportunity with [insert name of company] and look forward to exploring the next steps in the hiring process.

Thank you again for your time and consideration.

Best,

[insert your name]