Mistakes Made on Thank You Notes

Sending a thank-you note after a job interview is a great way to make a solid impression on a potential employer. However, making a mistake on a thank-you note can negate its positive effect. If you want to avoid undoing the good work you did at your interview, then you need to be careful not to make any of the following mistakes.

Don't start your thank-you note with an informal greeting, such as "Hey!" Using informal language in a thank-you note can make you appear unprofessional. Formally address the person who interviewed you and avoid using any slang in your thank-you note. You don't have to use grandiose language; just keep it simple, formal and professional.

Take the time to write a thank-you note to every person who interviewed you. Address each person by name, making sure you spell each name correctly. Each note should be unique, as interviewers are likely to compare the notes that they receive. Writing to each person individually shows that you care enough about the opportunity to spend time on your thank-you notes.

You should send your thank-you note within 24 hours of the job interview. Waiting longer can indicate that the job isn't important to you. To make sure you don't forget, write the thank-you note as soon as you get home from the interview. You can even compose it using your mobile device while you ride the bus home.

In the modern job market, sending a thank-you note by email is completely acceptable. However, a handwritten note can be a nice personal touch, particularly if you interviewed at a small company. If you decide to send a handwritten thank-you note, deliver it by hand the next day to make sure it is not delayed in the mail.

Keep your thank-you note short and simple. Any more than three short paragraphs is excessive. Interviewers like to know you are grateful for the opportunity, but they don't want to read an essay. Get to the point quickly and then close the letter by politely saying how much you're looking forward to hearing back about the job.

There is no need to send any sort of gift along with your thank-you note. Almost counterintuitive in nature, this approach can appear desperate and could even come across as an attempt to bribe your way into the desired position. A simple, heartfelt note is more than enough to express your gratitude.

Sending a thank-you note is a good way to show interviewers that you are passionate about the advertised role and grateful for the opportunity to interview for it. Follow these given guidelines to write a great thank-you note that makes a lasting impression on your potential future employer.

Image courtesy of Naypong at FreeDigitalPhotos.Net