When you’re gearing up for an interview, you probably have all the answers to possible questions already rehearsed in your head. However, not many people have planned out a “Thank You” to the interviewer. You know that all the right answers can land you a job, but did you know that a follow-up “thank you” leaves a great impression and it may even clear up any miscommunications or questions that may have been raised in your interview?

Your follow-up letter should restate why you think you’re a good fit for the position and other key points to keep the potential employer interested in you as an employee. This is also a great way to make-up for a part of the interview that, in retrospect, you did not do as well as you had hoped. This shows the interviewer that you have follow-through, as well as showing that you are a conscientious person. This will also show that you are excited about the position and enthusiasm goes a very long way in this competitive market!

So how do you handle the follow-up thank you?

• Keep it short, aim for 4-5 lines. Most likely, the interviewer is very busy and will not want to read a long letter. One exception would be if you elaborating on something that needs further explanation from your interview.
• Most agree that an email is better than regular mail (speed is key)
• It should be sent within 24-48 hours of your interview.
• Reaffirm your desire to work for the organization.  If possible, include a few examples of how you can add value. Your recruiter will be able to assist with additional points to touch on for each particular employer.
• Thank them for their time and consideration.

This small gesture goes a long way, and will give you the edge you need over your competition.  I have had clients change their minds about not moving forward with a candidate after reading a thank you email.  I have also had candidates get put on the fast track to the final interview stage (skipping over additional phone screens) due to their well-thought-out thank you email.

A potential employer often has so many qualified candidates that it can be a difficult decision. If you’re one of those qualified candidates, a simple “Thank You” can help you stand out.

Here are some numbers to consider, courtesy of Careerbuilder.com:

• 22% of employers are less likely to hire people who do not send a “Thank You”.
• 86% say that it shows a lack of follow-through.
• 56% suggest that it shows that the applicant isn’t serious about the job.
• 89% of employers say that it is appropriate to email your “Thank You”.

In this competitive marketplace you will want to have every possible advantage. If something as simple as saying “Thank You” can help give you a leg up, isn’t it worth your time?  This is especially true if it means landing your dream job. The importance here cannot be understated!

Sample Thank You after Phone Interview

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:

I appreciate having the opportunity to speak with you today about the Mobile Developer position at the ABCD company. The job seems to be a perfect match for my abilities and interests.

In addition to my enthusiasm, I will bring to the position a strong commitment to high quality work, a positive attitude and the ability to find creative solutions to various challenges.

I appreciate the time you took to speak with me. I look forward to having the opportunity to meeting you in person and hope to hear from you soon.

Again, thank you very much for your time and for your consideration.

Best Regards,

Peggy Anderson

Sample Thank You In-person Interview

Dear Mr. /Ms. Interviewer:

Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me today for the Sr. .Net Developer opportunity.  I felt a wonderful rapport with you and I am more convinced than ever that I will fit in well as a member of the team and will quickly be able to contribute to the organization.

I can make myself available for any further discussions of my qualifications that may be needed.

Again, I very much appreciate you and your team taking so much time to talk with me about this exciting opportunity.

Sincerely,

Peggy Anderson

Sample Group Thank You

I would like to thank you and your team for the opportunity to meet with you and to get a feel for the Systems Administrator position.

I found the questions asked during today’s interview to be very engaging and it was exciting to be able to meet the team – a very knowledgeable, fun and friendly group of people.

Today’s interview served to reinforce my interest in becoming part of the team.

If there is any other information I can provide to help expedite the decision making, please let me know.

Again, I appreciate the time you, and the rest of the team, took to talk with me and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

Peggy Anderson