Tips for Writing the Perfect ‘Thank You’ Email After an Interview
Posted February 17th, 2016
Writing a message of thanks following a job interview is still a standard practice, and for good reason. This is more than just a business courtesy. It’s also a chance for job seekers to make a final impression, reiterate their fit for the job, and connect with the hiring manager on a more personal level. But it’s important to write the email carefully if you want it to work to your advantage. Here are some reliable tips:
Don’t be Generic
A generic message is quickly forgotten. Make sure that yours has a little character. It’s always a good idea to have someone else read it to give you feedback before you send it out.
Be Gracious
You want to show how thankful you are for the interview and eager you are to work for the company. Like any kind of thank you note, expressing sincere gratitude is the whole purpose. Just remember the first point and avoid cliched phrasing.
Summarize Your Fit
The entire interview was you explaining why you’re a good fit for the job. In 2-3 sentences, sum up that argument in your email. Seeing your case explained in such a succinct way can help to change your image as a candidate.
Praise the Interview
Mention how much you learned from the interview and give a few specific examples. This shows that you were engaged in the process, reiterates your enthusiasm, and, when done smartly, further establishes your fit for the job.
Expand on the Interview
If there was a point that you forgot to make during the interview or a question that you could have answered better, your email is a great place to add details. Just make sure you don’t come off as insecure or pandering.
Look to the Future
Bridge the gap to your next communication by mentioning how eager you are to discuss the job/company/industry/issue further. This approach works better than explicitly mentioning the possibility of employment.
Schedule a Follow Up
At the conclusion of your letter, mention that you will be reaching out again in 2-3 days time by either phone or email to check on the status of the hiring process. This might seem like overkill, but most hiring managers agree that it’s entirely permissible. And if you are one of only a few candidates they’re considering, your enthusiasm can work to your advantage.
If you are ever at a loss for what to include/exclude from your thanks you email, ask if it meets these three criteria – clarity, brevity, sincerity. If it’s confusing, wordy, or phony it should be revised or rejected. Learn more about making a great overall impression with a new employer by consulting with Bayside Solutions.
