The Importance of Showing Gratitude After a Job Interview

You’ve probably heard that you should write a thank you note after an interview. But have you followed this important advice or ignored this step? Do you know if it affected your job search? Here are three major reasons why you should always write a thank you note following an interview.

1. It’s simple.
There’s no reason you shouldn’t write a thank you note. It doesn’t have to be a long, exhaustive letter. It can be a simple, handwritten note that expresses your gratitude to the employer for taking the time to interview you. Or, you could send a thoughtful e-mail, especially if you know the hiring decision will be made quickly. This is your chance to demonstrate your professionalism and show that you’d be a courteous addition to the team. Make sure to thank everyone you interviewed with and use proper spelling and grammar. Learn how to write a post-interview thank you note so you can follow-up quickly after your interview.

2. It sets you apart.
I recently attended a meeting where the guest speaker spoke about writing thank you notes. Out of 30 qualified candidates for her position, she was the only one that wrote a thank you note. And she’s the one who was offered the job. This just goes to show how important a thank you note can be in determining whether or not you receive a job offer. Sending a note doesn’t guarantee you’ll get a job, but it can help push you ahead if you’re on equal ground with other qualified applicants. Interviewers take notice of those who make this extra effort. So, set yourself apart by taking the time to write a thank you note to your potential employer. It won’t hurt your chances of getting the job if you send a note, but it might hurt you if you fail to send one.

3. It’s an opportunity to provide more information.
A thank you note gives you the perfect opportunity to provide further information to the interviewer. You can include information you forgot to mention during the interview that would reinforce why you are the right candidate for the job. Remind employers of your strengths or share new information that entices them to request another interview or extend a job offer. This is one more chance to make a great impression, so don’t pass it up.

Taking a few moments to write a post-interview thank you note can make the difference between receiving a job offer and having to continue the job hunt. Don’t forget this important step, because your dream job could be a simple thank you away.

Do you write thank you notes to those you’ve interviewed with? How has it affected your job search?