Should you bother sending a thank you message after a job interview?
A job seeker asked if he should send a thank you message after his first interview, even though he had a second interview lined up. Does anyone want to guess what my answer was?
ALWAYS send a thank you.
Most hiring managers or recruiters will tell you that they receive very few letters of thanks. Some say fewer than 5% of job seekers send thank yous. It is an easy way to set yourself apart and sell your interest in the position.
Email or Regular Mail?
Should you email your message or send it snail mail? That depends on the time frame for the next steps and who you are sending it to. If you have less than a week, then emailing your message is the way to go. However, there is nothing wrong with sending a brief email and then following it up with a hard copy, more detailed message, in the mail.
Handwritten or Typed?
Honestly, I don’t think it really matters. What does make a difference is that you take the time to thank the person or people who interviewed you.
Turned Down After An Interview?
Even if you get a rejection, send a thank you! It goes a long way and sends the message that you are interested in the company. Your message could be the reason you are remembered and open the door for future opportunities or you could be considered if the person hired doesn’t work out.
Remember, managing your career is about managing relationships. And sending a thank you helps you develop a relationship with the hiring manager for future consideration.
Letter/Message Outline
Three simple paragraphs are all you need:
Opening
The opening can be where you initially say thanks. Try and grab them by saying something complimentary about the person you met, the company or the people you met. Flattery, when sincere, is a good thing.
Relevant Points
This paragraph can be used to connect the dots for the employer about why you are a great fit for the job, be specific. Use the information you gathered from the interview.
If you fumbled a question or you think you could give a better answer, this should be where you tackle it.
Closing
Your closing paragraph will thank them again and make reference to the next steps.
Sample Thank You Letters
To learn more and see a sample thank you letter, check this out: Crafting the Perfect Thank You Letter
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.
