Do I Have to Send a Thank You Note After a Job Interview?

Learn the impact of thank you notes in job interviews and how they can boost your chances. Discover their relevance and how they improve your chances.

We've all experienced that post-interview adrenaline rush, the blend of relief and suspense that comes after you've aced the Q&A, infused the conversation with your charisma, and showcased your depth of experience. Yet, as you step out of the interview room, the only assurance you carry is the interviewer's parting phrase, "We will be in touch soon."

However, there's a powerful yet frequently underestimated step you can take to solidify the impression you've left behind. It is "Thank You Notes."

Are they often overlooked post-interview gems or relics of the past?

What is a Thank You Note

A "Thank You Note" is pretty much what it sounds like. It's a brief message you send to your interviewer after the interview to express gratitude for their time and to reiterate your interest in the job. Think of it as the cherry on top of your already stellar interview performance.

But don't mistake its simplicity for insignificance. While it might seem old-school in the age of instant messaging and emojis, a well-crafted thank you note can work wonders. It's your chance to leave a lasting impression, remind the interviewer of your conversation, and showcase your professionalism.

Plus, who doesn't like a little appreciation, right?

5 Benefits of Sending Thank You Notes

Sending thank you notes is not just a kind gesture, but it also brings numerous benefits. Here's why sending one might be a game-changer for some candidates:

1. Reiteration of Interest

   Think of your thank you note as a little nudge, a gentle reminder saying, "Hey, I'm still here and super interested!" It's a way to show the employer that you're genuinely keen on joining their team.

2. Professionalism on Display

   Sending a thank you note isn't just about manners; it's about showcasing your professionalism. It tells your potential employer that you value their time and appreciate the opportunity they gave you.

3. Stand Out from the Crowd

   Picture this: Two equally qualified candidates, but only one sends a thank you note. Who do you think leaves a lasting impression? Yes, it's YOU with that little extra effort!

4. A Chance to Add or Clarify

   Ever had that "Oh, I should've mentioned that!" moment post-interview? A thank you note is your chance to bring up something crucial you might've missed or to clarify a point you discussed.

5. Building a Connection

   It's all about building relationships, right? A personalized thank you note can help forge a connection with your interviewer, making you more memorable.

5 Downsides of Sending Thank You Notes

Before you rush off to write that note or start typing an email or LinkedIn message on your phone or laptop, let's flip the coin and take a look at the other side.

While thank you notes can be fantastic, there are a few pitfalls you might want to be aware of:

1. Risk of Overkill

   There's a fine line between showing interest and coming off as, well, a bit too eager. You don’t want your potential employer thinking you're desperate, do you?

2. The Danger of Generic Notes

   If your thank you note reads like a copy-pasted template from the internet, it might do more harm than good. An insincere or generic note can feel, for lack of a better word, icky.

3. Oops, Did I Just Send That?

   Typos, wrong names, or incorrect details – these tiny slip-ups can tarnish the image you've worked so hard to build. Always, always proofread!

4. Misinterpretation Missteps

   What if your note gets misunderstood? The tone in written communication can sometimes be tricky, and you wouldn’t want your well-intentioned note to be misconstrued.

5. The Stress Factor

   For some of us, writing a thank you note can be a source of post-interview anxiety. You might find yourself overthinking every word, wondering if it's even worth it.

What a Thank You Note Should Have + Example

Now that you know the benefits and drawbacks of sending a note. If you've made up your mind and you're ready to send one, there are a few things you should know about what a proper thank you note should include:

1. Addressing
First things first, make sure you're addressing the right person. If you've had multiple interviews, it's easy to get names mixed up. Double-check, and then check again. A generic "To whom it may concern" just won't cut it. If you spoke with three interviewers, send three thank you notes or one with three names!

2. Gratitude
This is a thank you note after all. Start by expressing your appreciation for the time and effort the interviewer took to meet with you. Remember, they're busy folks!

3. Reference
Bring up a memorable moment or topic from the interview. This shows you were engaged and attentive.

4. Reiteration
This is your moment to shine! Reiterate your interest in the position and remind them of how your skills align with the company's needs.

5. Contact
Close out by providing your contact information. Make it easy for them to reach out.

Example:
Dear [Interviewer's Name],

Thank you for taking the time to discuss the [Job Position] role with me today. I truly appreciated learning more about [specific aspect of the company or role], and it reinforced my belief that I'd be a great fit for your team. I'm especially excited about [a particular challenge or responsibility mentioned], and I'm confident that my experience in [specific skill or job duty] aligns well with what you're looking for. Please feel free to reach out if you have any additional questions. I'm looking forward to the possibility of contributing to [Company's Name].

Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]

Providing your email address and phone number might not be necessary if you are sending an email. You can just close with your name (Or your name and phone number).

Here's my recommendation: if you're sending your Thank You note via email, consider adding a link to your LinkedIn profile right under your name. It's a great way to expand your network and remind the interviewer why you're the perfect fit when they check out your profile.

Thank You Note After a Job Interview

Thank you notes may seem like a small gesture, but trust me, they can really pack a punch in leaving a lasting impression. You know, it's all about standing out in the crowded job market and showcasing not just your skills but your character too.

Let's be real here. The job-seeking journey can be a real rollercoaster ride, complete with its ups, downs, loops, and unexpected turns. But just like any ride at the amusement park, it's all about how you handle it. So, about those thank you notes? They're just one piece of the puzzle! Whether you decide to send one or skip it, always trust your gut and stay true to yourself.

Stay ambitious, and keep shining!

If you found this article insightful and you're hungry for more exclusive tips, tricks, and templates to turbocharge your job-seeking process, there's a treasure trove waiting for you just beyond the paywall. Trust me, it's worth the dive!

What's beyond the paywall?

• The best tips for creating a thank you note

• When exactly to send it

• What's the right medium (LinkedIn, Email, Handwritten note…?)

• 4 awesome thank you note examples for job seekers