For example, you might write, “Thank you for the job interview yesterday. ”
Generally speaking, handwritten notes are more acceptable in creative and service fields. For instance, you might send a handwritten note if you interviewed for a job as a nonprofit manager for a service organization or a reporter at a small local newspaper. On the other hand, a handwritten note may seem outdated if you’re applying for a tech job, so it’s usually best to skip it. [4] X Research source
Rather than using cursive, write the body of your note in print to make it easier to read. Most interviewers don’t expect a handwritten note, but it might get their attention or set you apart from other candidates.
If you don’t have their business card, check their organization’s website to see if you can find the information you need there. You may also find it on a site like LinkedIn. For example, “Dear Ms. Thompson. ” Don’t get too casual with your salutation. Avoid opening with words like “Hey. ”
You might write, “Thank you for meeting with me yesterday. I appreciate the time you spent explaining the specifics of the position to me, as well as the time you took to get to know me better. ” If you’re writing an email, you might write a short 2-4 sentence paragraph to express your gratitude. If you’re sending a handwritten note, you should only write 1-2 sentences.
For instance, “Your explanation of the upcoming project made me even more excited about this position. I worked on a similar project in my previous position, so I know I’ll be a great fit for your team. ” If you’re writing a handwritten note, it’s okay to write just a sentence or two, depending on how much space you have.
Say, “After my interview, I’m even more excited about this opportunity to work with Company, Inc. If you have any more questions about what I will bring to your team, please don’t hesitate to contact me. ” Although you want the interviewer to know you’re still interested, don’t elaborate on your background or qualifications. This will make your thank you note seem self-serving rather than a true expression of gratitude. [10] X Research source
Great options for a complimentary close include “Sincerely,” “Yours truly,” and “Best regards. ” Using a formal close increases the professionalism of your email. You don’t need to leave room for a signature between your complimentary close and your name when you’re sending an email. This is because you aren’t hand signing it.
You might write, “Dear Ms. Jones, I really appreciate the opportunity to interview with you yesterday. I mailed a thank you note to you today, so you should receive it shortly. Sincerely, Luz Lopez. " This is more of a concern if you expect them to make a quick hiring decision. As an alternative, you could hand deliver the note.
Wait at least an hour after your interview before sending your thank you note. Otherwise, you might seem too aggressive. If you’re sending a handwritten thank you note, deliver it in person or mail it on the day of your interview.
You might cost yourself the job if you use informal language like slang or text-speak. For example, avoid using abbreviations like “lol,” “fwiw,” and “rn. " Similarly, don’t begin your email with salutations like “hey” or “hi. " Always use “dear” when you’re writing a professional message. As you proofread your letter, check for words used incorrectly, such as “there,” “their” and “they’re. "
For example, let’s say you interviewed with a modern tech company that boasts about its friendly, down-to-earth culture. If the interview process has been informal, you might use a more casual tone in your thank you note.
Your paragraphs will be very short. It’s normal for them to be 1-4 sentences long.
For example, you might have learned from their Linkedin profile that they graduated from the same program as you. It’s best not to mention this unless it came up during your interview. You don’t need to include personal details at all, so you might choose to stay away from this type of information.
Typos or incorrectly used words might cost you the job, as the interviewer might view them as inattention to detail.
