Saying thank you can go a long way. A thank you note or email message, in addition to showing your appreciation, can boost your career opportunity. This will help you get a job offer, and cement a relationship with a client, vendor, or networking contact. According to a Top Resume survey of 334 hiring managers between August and September of this year, 68% said a post-interview thank you email – or lack thereof – take on greater importance when evaluating a candidate today than it did prior to the Coronavirus Pandemic.
The Benefits
It demonstrates professionalism – it shows you respect the hiring teams time for interviewing you and you care about the potential future relationship.
It will make you memorable – with the unemployment rate still high at 6.9 percent, sending a thank you will help stand out from other applicants.
It will help maintain communication – another touchpoint to remain in the hiring team’s mind.
What to Include in your letter?
First paragraph: Thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. Be sure to mention your interest in the job, as well as something about your interactions so the employer can remember you.
Second paragraph: This is where you include your reasons why you are a great fit for the job. List specific skills that relate to the job you interviewed for.
Third paragraph: This can be used to mention anything you did not bring up in the interview and you would like the employer to know. You can also elaborate on a point that you felt might have needed more attention during the interview.
Fourth paragraph: Reiterate your appreciation for being considered for the job and let the interviewer know you are looking forward to hearing from them soon. (It’s always a good idea to include your email and cell phone number.)
Tips
Email each person you interviewed with individually.
Send it quickly – within 24-48 hours.
Do some research and read through examples online.
Always proofread your letter and if possible, have someone else look at it for you.
Your thank you note sets the tone as your first interview follow-up. Whatever you do – do not skip it! Remind the hiring manager what a great applicant you are and show how much you care.