Watch for These Four Signs in Your Thank You Note That Could Hurt You

Any article will tell you that sending a thank you note after a job interview is one of the best ways to impress hiring managers and make a solid impression. However, making a mistake on your thank you note can undo any positive effect. Watch out for these four common mistakes.

1. Being Generic

Creating a generic thank you note is just as bad as sending a generic resume or cover letter. A note that says "Thank you for the meeting" is not only bland, but cliched as well. The hiring manager will be able to instantly tell you used a general template, especially if the note is not specifically addressed to him. In addition to customizing your thank you note to each person you met with, it's important to discuss details from your interview that will help the hiring manager remember you. Reiterate your interest in the position and make it clear how much your qualifications and experience match what the company is looking for.

2. Sending it Too Late

Don't let more than 24 hours pass before sending your thank you note. For best results, write it immediately after the job interview, when the discussion is still fresh in your mind. If you let too much time pass after the interview, you run the risk of appearing careless or unprofessional. In today's digitally advanced society, sending your thank you note via email is perfectly acceptable, so there's really no excuse not to send one over immediately. Handwriting a letter is a nice touch too, but if you prefer to do it the old-fashioned way, deliver it yourself so it doesn't get stuck in the mail.

3. Running On

Don't try to provide a recap of the entire interview in your thank you note. Your note should accomplish three things: thanking the interviewer for the time and opportunity, reiterating your interest and qualifications in relation to the job and addressing any concerns the interviewer may have had about you. You should be able to put together a concise thank you letter in three paragraphs or less.

4. Doing Too Much

Some job seekers go above and beyond sending a thank you note, and try to impress hiring managers with gifts or other inappropriate things. This is both unnecessary and detrimental, as it can be misconstrued as bribery or sheer desperation. Even if you feel that you made a wonderful personal connection with the interviewer, sending anything in addition to the thank you note is simply unprofessional. A simple, concise and well-written note is all you need to impress the hiring manager.

Sending a thank you note after the interview is an effective way to show the hiring manager that you are professional, passionate and grateful for the opportunity to talk about your future with their company. Making any of the mistakes listed above, however, can have the opposite effect. Follow these tips to craft a great thank you note that leaves a strong and lasting impression on your potential employer.

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