The Importance of Writing a Thank-You Note After an Interview

You’ve just aced an interview for a role you really want. What next? In the period between shaking the hand of your interviewer goodbye and the company’s next step in the hiring process, you can send a thank-you note. Before you think that it’s pushy or old-fashioned to do so, let’s talk about why it could be the move that lands you your dream job.

Show Your Interest

Many people apply to multiple jobs that they are not 100 per cent interested in, just to cast the widest net and see what offers they can reel in. Interviewers know this too. In order to make sure your name is still at the top of the list of candidates, tell them you are actually interested! Hiring managers will appreciate that you are serious about the role. The earlier you send a thank-you note, the better. Ideally, you should leave the note in their inbox within 24 hours of your interview.

Stand Out of the Crowd

You may be one of the hundreds of candidates that have applied or interviewed for the job. Remind the company of who you are with a follow-up note. It adds the personal touch and reminds interviewers that you are a human being, not just a name on a list. A handwritten note will make you stand out, but email is more efficient — you can determine the best format based on company culture. A tech company will expect online communications, but an old-fashioned office may be more inclined towards paper and pen.

It’s Classy to Be Polite

Displaying etiquette will let your interviewer know that you know how to behave in a professional setting. Soft skills are harder to view on a resume, but easy to demonstrate in real life. Politeness is an underrated quality that people always appreciate. People want to work with pleasant employees. Even if you don’t get the job, you’ll create a connection. When the next job opening comes along, the hiring manager may remember you and reach out if you are a good fit.

Note that the hiring process at many companies has become so automated that you may never get the contact information of your interviewer. In order to get around this problem, you can consider going to the office and leaving a note with the receptionist to deliver or looking up the email address of the hiring department on the company website. Carefully gauge what is appropriate and don’t breach anyone’s privacy.

How to Write a Thank-You Note