Thank You Letter after an Interview

After interviewing for a position, it is appropriate to write a Thank You Letter, even if you are not sure you are interested in the job.  The letter is usually sent through an email, although some people prefer to hand write a Thank You Note.  Either way, this gesture will demonstrate your professionalism and interest in the opportunity.  If you are not interested in the position, it will, nonetheless, keep you in their network for future opportunities or general communication.

Keep it simple.  Too many people write a lengthy letter and over sell themselves.  You had your opportunity in the interview to make your pitch, so a thank you letter should not restate your resume.  Just give thanks and add value, if you have something additional to share.  Express your appreciation and reiterate your continued interest in the opportunity.  Then, in a few words add a few bullets to showcase your fit - especially if there are details that were not shared in the interview.  Some professionals state that the perfect time to send a Thank You note is very early AM the following day, which is more likely to get attention.  If you send it in the middle of the same day, it might get lost.   (Some prospective candidates also send a Pre-Thank You Note, expressing appreciation for the upcoming interview.)

The ideal format for a Thank You Letter would include: First paragraph is about enthusiasm;  Second paragraph restates your qualifications that make you a great fit;  End graciously and thank them again for their time.

An example of an introduction on a Thank You Letter might include:

Dear ____,

Thank you so much for the opportunity to discuss the XYZ position last week. It was a pleasure meeting you and (list names).

Then add one thing that you really enjoyed talking to them about related to the job. Such as,

I especially enjoyed speaking to you about how this (position) will solve (this issue, project, problem) for you. 

OR

Thank you so much for taking the time to interview me for the (position) at (Company.). I am very excited at the prospect of working with you and your team, and it was great to learn more about (specific project/goal).

In your second paragraph, you can remind them of your qualifications for the job in a brief sentence or two.  You can write about a way that you specifically can contribute by suggesting a solution to a certain issue that was raised in the interview.  This should be brief, typically one sentence, or one or two bullets, which will demonstrate that you were really listening, such as:

You mentioned that your team has a goal of (XYZ).  I believe that my skills  will add         value and help you achieve that result. 

Here you could add one or two bullets reminding them of your skills.

Another example might include:

As I mentioned in our meeting, I believe that my (years-experience) as (Position, etc.) has provided me with a strong understanding of the scope of your position, as well as equipped me with (x) skills to be successful in this position.

Please let me know if you require any additional information or clarification.

In one brief sentence you are reminding them that they need you, and that this job has a purpose which you can fulfill.

Another way to write a Thank You Letter - and gain the continued interest of the Hiring Manager, is to reference an article, book, documentary, lecture  (a specific subject) that relates directly to the issues of the position.  For example:

Thank you so much for taking the time to interview me yesterday.

I really appreciated learning more about (XYZ position/company) and the specific skills required for this role.  I understand that being comfortable with change is of key mportance.  I recently read the book (“Name of Book”), by (author) which offers some innovative ideas about dealing with change. I thought you might find it interesting.

I look forward to the possible next steps.

Thank you again.

Finally, a simple note restating your interest and enthusiasm is really all that is necessary to thank a Hiring Manager and the Team for their time.  It keeps the dialogue moving forward and an opportunity to follow up. 

Dear (First Name), 

Thank you so much for the opportunity to speak with you about XYZ position.  I really enjoyed talking with you about (blank). If there is anything else I can provide to further my candidacy, please let me know, because I would love to work with you! 

Sincerely, 

Always provide your full name and contact information, proofread, and be sure to send a Thank You Letter to every person with whom you met or interviewed.  Sending letters of appreciation, showcasing your professionalism and an understanding of the opportunity, will produce a favorable opinion of you as a future employee.