Sending a thank you note after an interview

How sending a thank you note can increase your chances of getting hired

A timely, thoughtful email or follow up contact after an interview can set you apart from other applicants. While it may seem like a cordial formality, a 'thank you' is an opportunity to show the hiring manager(s)

• that their time was valued and appreciated
• reminds them of your interest in the role - and how your qualities are well suited for the job
• keeps you top of mind as the manager considers your candidacy amongst other applicants
• that you are well mannered, and have desirable (and hirable) personality traits

A thank you note is time-sensitive. Plan to send a thank-you note to each interviewer within 24 hours after an interview. Typically thank you notes are emailed.

Pro-tip: Be proactive and ask for email addresses during the interview.

What to include in a thank-you note after an interview

Emailed thank you notes should be clear and concise. Be sure to include:

• Clear subject line – Use a basic, but personal subject line so the reader doesn’t think it’s spam

• Open with a personal, individualized greeting – Use the interviewer’s name to show you pay attention and can retain details. If you interviewed with more than one person, each one should get a separate, customized email

• Say "thank you" in the body of the email

• Express your interest and fit – Reiterate your interest in the job and the how how your skills match with the job

• Offer to provide additional information – Show that you're ready to take the steps to land the position

• **Sign off professionally ** – Say thank you again, and conclude with your full name and your contact information (make it easy for the hiring manager to communicate with you)

Sample follow-up email to potential employer

Here’s a sample thank-you note that you can cut and paste and customize to make your own.

Subject line: Thank you for your time today, George!

Hi George,

Thank you so much for meeting me today to discuss the cashier position at Apple Mart. It’s been my favorite grocery store since I moved to the neighborhood six years ago! I think I would be an ideal addition to the team because of my three years of cashiering experience as well as my familiarity with the neighborhood.

Please let me know if there’s any additional information I can provide for you.

Thank you again for your time.

Kind regards,

Samantha Smith [email protected] 617.555.1212

A thank-you email to a prospective employer may seem like a small detail, but it makes a big impact on hiring managers. Follow the suggestions above to write a simple but powerful thank you note.