Good, Better, Best: How to say "Thank you" after an interview
The interview is complete and you leave the company offices feeling good. You’ve learned more about the position and you want this job. Now what?
Good
Email a thank you note to anyone you interviewed with within 24 hours of the interview. It doesn’t need to be long but should thank the individual for their time and express your continued interest in the role. Getting each person’s email address should be easy enough by asking your main point of contact. If not, an alternative is to send a message via LinkedIn. Email is better however.
Better
Email thank you notes to anyone you interviewed with before the end of the work day, generally before 4 pm. In addition to thanking each person for their time, express your continued interest and connect it to a specific topic that the two of you discussed in your interview. This will help the interview remember your specific conversation.
Best
In addition to the email, send a personal, handwritten thank you note to the key decision maker(s) that you met. This would include the hiring manager and possibly their manager too. Your note should reflect your strong interest in the position. Neat handwriting and your attention to details will be important in the note. The note itself doesn’t need to be long because it will be sent in addition to the email.
Not sure if a handwritten note is worth the time, stationary and postage? Read this article from Forbes.
Tips
Schedule time to write thank you emails and notes before your interview. It’s easier to find time when it’s been scheduled.
Ask for email addresses during the interview or after from your point of contact.
Keep stationary and stamps on hand.
