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How to Write the Perfect Thank-You Note After the Interview

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I was told that I was hired for a job specifically because I sent a thank you card - none of the other applicants had not. That was over 10 years ago. I've been job searching for over 2 years now - In spite of the extra cost and time on my part, I still send them out. Character counts, even if it is "only me" that is paying attention.

Paris Romero of CA 5:55PM July 01, 2009

In a recent survey published in a Vancouver, BC (Canada) newspaper employers were asked if they would hire a job applicant if the applicant didn't send a thank you note after the interview. 35% of all employers surveyed stated they would not hire the applicant if no letter received, 15% of employers stated they would have to think seriously about hiring a suitable applicant who didn't send a thank you.

Eve Fox- Employment Counsellor 5:03PM March 12, 2009

Thank you for writing this up. It's a great guide for someone staring at a piece of paper not sure even how to start and for someone who's written them before- a while ago- but needs a gentle push.

Mike of MD 11:12PM February 19, 2009

This might be the most important piece of advice yet. Well done!

glh of MN 2:04PM February 16, 2009

is not written and printed off at your current place of employment.
nuff said

Mad About Ewe of CA 3:00PM February 12, 2009

Martin,
You sound like you have plenty of experience with this...in your experience, how many actually do send thank you notes? What could be the reason job seekers choose not to send one?

GLH of MN 9:29AM February 11, 2009

An interview can be a nerve wracking experience for some. Often there are discussions left open that ideally need to be addressed. They could pertain to any issue regarding the future position. A thank you note is three-fold:
1.Provides you with the opportunity to remain front and center of the decision making process, your name being placed again in front of the interviewers.
2.Gives you the opportunity to thank them for their time.
3.Provides an opportunity to address an unfinished question or answer.
In short, always send a thank you note! The effort is well worth your time.
Happy job searching.

Martin Buckland 10:28PM February 10, 2009

And I overlooked that point, good catch.

glh of MN 3:38PM February 10, 2009

Great tips, GL! Like you, I'm amazed that something so simple and potentially so powerful is so often overlooked by job candidates! Shame on them... there's certainly enough free excellent advice (like yours) on how and why to do thank-you letters. Oh well.
One thing I'd like to add to your "format" tip... only handwrite them if you have GOOD handwriting! An ugly scrawled note that's virtually unreadable may do more harm than good. If in doubt, type your thank-you note. Your reader will thank you (and maybe even hire you)!

Bonnie Lowe of CA 3:37PM February 10, 2009

Thanks a lot for adding your considerable expertise to this subject. I am surprised at job applicants who DONT even do any type of thank you letter/note/email after the interview.
Almost anything will be better than not doing one at all....assuming it is nice, clean and professional.

GLH of MN 2:06PM February 10, 2009