Does That Thank You Note Really Matter?

It is exciting to leave a job interview feeling confident about your opportunity with a particular company. However, you are now tasked with writing a professional thank you note emphasizing your interest and your qualifications. Correspondence with a potential employer is crucial, and sending a note expressing your appreciation after the interview may put you at the top of the list of viable candidates.

The Benefits

Employers notice applicants who take the time and put forth the effort to write a thank you note. This simple act shows your eagerness to work for the company and also displays professional business etiquette. In fact, some hiring managers actively look for candidates to send a follow-up note and view the lack of a thank you note as a sign that you are not interested or invested in the opportunity.

The Process

Spend time during your job search researching the company so you can mention your findings during the interview but also reference accomplishments that impress you when writing a follow-up note or email. Reference specific discussions from your job interview so the hiring manager remembers you and your skill set, experience and qualifications. Avoid listing information from your resume. Instead, market your skills by reiterating how your experience can positively impact the company or organization.

The Formatting

Employers typically do not have a preference for handwritten notes or well-written emails. The key to writing a successful thank you note revolves heavily around the content and formatting. Check and double check the spelling of the interviewer's name and position. These types of errors can invoke a negative impression and indicate you do not pay close attention to detail. If you are handwriting a note of thanks, write legibly and use a blank note card so you can offer more information about yourself and your interest in the position. Format emails in a word processing program to perfectly align the paragraphs and headings to further impress hiring managers.

The Content

Focus your job search on ways to write sincerely yet professionally to enhance your ability to create a clear and concise thank you note. Offer a personal touch by sending notes to each and every person involved in the interview or even individuals you met while touring the company facilities. Begin the note with an expression of thanks and reference your observations of the success of the company and the nature of the company's culture.

Candidates who put forth the effort to write a thank you note increase not only their visibility as an interviewed candidate but also make a positive impression following the interview. Spend time proofreading your correspondence with future employers to avoid typos or grammatical errors that can negatively impact your chance of obtaining a job offer.

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