Job Interview Etiquette: The "Thank You" Note
Make a Great Impression - After the Interview!
These days, "thank you" notes are far less common. Although etiquette still dictates that they are proper for all the aforementioned occasions, you'll likely only receive one after a wedding, or a bridal or baby shower.
Nonetheless, sending a "thank you" note after a job interview can mean the difference between a job offer or a phone call that reveals "sorry, we hired someone else." If you really want to stand out in the sea of job candidates, you should always write a "thank you" note after an interview. Here's how to do it:
Send it promptly. Wait too long and it looks like an afterthought - and the interviewer will assume that you're not very enthusiastic about the job. Send it a day or two after your job interview so it reaches the interviewer promptly.
Type it. A handwritten "thank you" note might seem more personal, but you're not supposed to mix business and your personal life! Stick with a professional appearance by typing the note on your computer. Use the same quality paper you'd use for your cover letter and resume.
Mail it. Although some people believe that sending the "thank you" note by email is appropriate, the old-fashioned - and always correct - way is to send it by mail. Why risk the interviewer thinking you're too lazy to address an envelope? The exception: If you're applying for a computer or tech job, an emailed "thank you" note is probably fine.
Write it. Your "thank you" note should be a chance for you to express your enthusiasm about the job position, as well as remind the interviewer about all your good qualities. Make sure you point out a few different ways in which your skills and experience will benefit his/her company. (Alternatively, if you're not interested in the position, you might want to mention that you've accepted another offer. If you should ever interview with this company again, your good manners might be remembered.)
Proofread it. Like any professional correspondence, you should proofread it carefully for spelling errors and grammar mistakes. Although this is a "thank you" letter, it's different from the handwritten note you jot out to Aunt Jenny after the holidays. This letter should be just as clean and professional as any communication you would have with an industry pro.
You may think a "thank you" note is unnecessary in this time of quick emails and fast-paced business. But expressing appreciation for someone's time and consideration will never go out of style.
Published by Morgan Vermeil
A professional freelance writer and editor, Morgan's areas of expertise include health, business, finance, family, pets and relationships. She's written for numerous publications, websites and magazines. View profile
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- Type your note instead of handwriting it.
- Mail it promptly.
- Use it as an opportunity to express your enthusiasm about the job.
2 Comments
Post a CommentHmm . . . I disagree with a few points. I think email is great, especially if you know a hiring decision may happen before the letter arrives. I once started a job before my mailed thank you arrived. Although, I still send a mailed thank you -- although I handwrite mine, which has always allowed me to stand out from the crowd. In business, the "personal touch" goes a long way.
Morgan, this is so true. When you are job hunting you need some way to distinguish yourself from the other applicants. A thank-you note goes a long way towards that goal.