How you follow up with an employer after your interview is almost as important as the interview itself. And sending a well-written thank you email and/or letter soon after your interview is essential. Here are some tips for writing a thank you note that will impress employers.
Why you should send a thank you
- It is a best-practice courtesy. A thank you note shows the employer that you appreciate their time, and for considering you for the job.
- It’s a chance to remind the employer why you’re the right candidate. Did you forget to mention something in the interview that you really want the employer to know? Are there any qualifications that you want to remind them of? This is your opportunity.
- It helps the employer remember you. Seeing your thank you note in their inbox is a great way to have the employer remember you positively as they’re making the decision of who to hire.
- Is there anything you want to follow up on? If there was a question that you didn't quite know how to answer—or didn’t go the way you’d like—you can use this opportunity for a second chance.
Tips for writing your note
Be prompt
Plan to send your thank you within 24 hours of your interview. Have a general outline for your note ahead of time to help you. Then, right after your interview ends, write down anything you want to reference in your note.
Think about something you enjoyed discussing, any skills or experiences you want to mention again, and anything else you want to include. This will help you quickly craft your follow up.
Personalize
Did the interviewer share something specific they like about their job or the organization? Do you two share a common interest, hobby, or alma mater? Be sure to include any personal touches to your note that will make it—and you—stand out.
Be concise
Employers are busy and receive a lot of email, so they may just skim over a long email or letter. Keep your writing brief and to the point—one to two paragraphs is all you need.
Close with next steps
End your note with a forward-looking statement. Either that you look forward to hearing from them, discussing next steps, or that you will be following up. You can also mention that they should feel free to contact you with additional questions, or if there is anything they would like to discuss with you in more detail.
Proofread
It’s always a good idea to double and triple-check anything you send to an employer, whether it’s your cover letter, resume, or thank you. Ask a friend or family member to read over it and help you catch spelling or grammar mistakes. And be sure to check that the interviewer’s name is spelled correctly!
Email or snail mail?
In most cases, an email thank you will be fine, especially if you had a virtual interview. However, if you met the employer in person, or they strike you as being more traditional, it doesn't hurt to send a typed letter in the mail as well.
For the subject line of your email, a simple “Thank you” and your name will suffice. Have a professional closing (“Sincerely” or “Best regards” will work) and signature with your full name and contact information.
Here is an example of a typed thank you letter:
Date
Your contact information
[First name Last name
City, State Zip
Email Address
Phone number]
The interviewer’s contact information
[Mr./Mrs./Ms. First name Last name
Title
Employer name
Address
City, State Zip]
Professional greeting: [Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms. Last name,]
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me yesterday about the [job title] role at [company name]. I enjoyed discussing [include something you talked about] with you.
Our conversation confirmed my interest in [this role, the employer, etc.]. I especially enjoyed learning about [what you like most about the job or the employer].
I am confident that my [call out specific experience or skills] would help me be successful in this role. Please feel free to contact me if you have any additional questions or I can provide any more information. I look forward to speaking with you soon. Thank you again for your time.
Professional closing: [Sincerely,]
Your signature
Your typed name