Saying “thank you” after an interview is a must! No matter what type of job you’re seeking, sending a thoughtful message thanking the interviewer is the best way to leave a great impression. Just like following up after a first date, you want to let them know you are interested and determined to see them again. But what do you say? You did your research and you know what the company is looking for, so take a peek at the samples below that can inspire you to write something that will make you stand out from the crowd of job seekers. You don’t need more than three or four sentences, because the stationery you use will speak volumes. Depending on the interview scenario, you can choose different styles of cards to express your personality, from elegant and sophisticated to quirky and whimsical.
1. The in-person interview
Handwrite your thank you note for a face-to-face interview. The extra step (versus emailing or printing a message out) will impress the interviewer. Prewrite the introduction part of your letter to make sure it will get to your recipient quickly. When you leave, the details of your interview will be fresh in your mind and you can pen a thank you right away. Simply run it back into the reception desk after you sign and seal it. Here is one example that you can fill in with specific information:
Dear {Name of the Interviewer},
It was a pleasure to meet you in person today. After speaking with you I am convinced I would be a great fit for {the position} because of the {number} years of experience I have in supporting {previous executive/company}. I have also been responsible for {project/office}, where I managed a successful team of {number} people. I have been interested in working for {interviewer’s company} for several years and would be thrilled to work on your team! I believe I would fit in with the culture and thrive were you to choose me.
I look forward to hearing back from you.
{Your Name}
2. The fast phone interview
Sending a short thank you note after a quick informational interview really sends the message you are interested in exploring the position further. Here’s how to compose one:
Good morning/afternoon {Name of the Interviewer},
Thank you so much for taking the time to talk with me today about {interviewer’s company}. After learning more from you and from my research on what {interviewer’s company} does, I believe I would be a great fit for the position because of my track record in {industry/duties/projects}. I am very excited about the opportunity to work on your team and would love to come to the office and meet with everyone in person.
Again, thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you.
{Your Name}
3. The second-round interview
If you have just completed a second-round interview, congratulations! You are on the right track, so keep it going with a great note. Be sure you secure a third-round meeting by emphasizing your enthusiasm for the position, your interest in the company and why you are the best fit for the job based on your experience. Check out this sample:
Dear {Name of the Interviewer},
It was great to meet with you for a second interview today. My enthusiasm for the position and working for {interviewer’s company} is only growing. Meeting with the team was great, and I really feel that we would get along professionally and personally.
I still think that I would be a great fit for this position because of {list of 3 reasons}. I showed leadership in previous positions through {skills} and measured my success through {percentage of improvement}. I have wanted to work for your company for some time and am honored to have had the opportunity to interview for this position.
Thank you again for taking the time to meet with me, and I look forward to hearing back from you.
{Your Name}