You landed the interview, you prepared meticulously, and you walked out feeling like you absolutely crushed it. What’s next? Sending a thank you note. In an age where every detail matters, a personalized thank you note is no longer just a polite gesture—it’s a powerful tool that can set you apart and solidify your position as the top candidate.
In today’s fast-paced hiring landscape, showing genuine enthusiasm and professionalism can make all the difference. Sending a thank you note, especially via email, allows you to act quickly.
The Golden Rule: Send your thank-you note within 24 hours of your interview. This shows a sense of urgency and confirms your keen interest in the role while the conversation is still fresh in the interviewer's mind.
Your Thank You Note Checklist
Follow these simple guidelines to make sure your thank you note leaves a lasting positive impression.
Do:
- Be Prompt: Aim to send your note the same day as your interview or, at the latest, the next morning.
- Personalize It: Mention a specific point you discussed with each interviewer. This shows you were listening and makes your note stand out from a generic template.
- Use a Clear Subject Line: Something like "Thank You - [Position Name]" makes it easy for the hiring manager to identify your message.
- Proofread, Proofread, Proofread: A single typo can undermine the professional impression you’ve worked so hard to create. Double-check your note for any spelling or grammatical errors. A quick review from a friend or family member is always a good idea.
- Include Everyone: If you met with multiple people, send a note to each person you spoke with, or at the very least, a single note to the main point of contact, thanking the entire team.
Don't:
- Overwhelm Them: A single, well-written email is sufficient. Avoid sending multiple notes or following up too aggressively in the days immediately after.
- Make It About Money: Your thank you note is not the time to discuss salary or benefits. Keep the focus on your appreciation and continued interest in the position.
- Forget Your Digital Footprint: Ensure your online presence is professional. Recruiters often check social media, so make sure your public profiles reflect the same polished image you presented in your interview.
Sample Template:
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me today about the [Position Title] position at [Firm Name]. I truly enjoyed our conversation and learning more about [Something from your interview about the firm or role].
I was particularly interested in our discussion regarding [Specific point from the conversation]. Your insights reinforced my enthusiasm for this role and my belief that my skills in [Your relevant skill] would be a great asset to your team.
I am confident that my passion for helping clients achieve their financial goals aligns perfectly with your firm's mission. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your firm’s success.
Thank you again for your time and consideration and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Ready to Start Your Career Journey?
A great thank you note is just one part of showing you're a serious, professional candidate, but it is a very important one. If you are looking for your next opportunity check out our current job opportunities here.
The New Planner Recruiting Team*
*AI Assisted