Expressing gratitude through a thank you note after a job interview can actually make a big difference in the hiring process. It may seem like a small gesture, but most hiring managers still expect to receive one and it can set you apart from other candidates. Despite its importance, less than 20% of job candidates send thank-you notes, according to Jeff Hyman, an executive recruiter.
By forgetting to send a thank you note, you are essentially signaling that you are not interested in the job. On the other hand, a well-crafted thank-you email shows eagerness, organization, and good manners. It can also showcase your good communication and creativity skills. When writing a thank you note, it is crucial to keep it concise and clear, with a maximum of 250-300 words.
Include thanking the interviewer for their time, reiterating your interest in the job, mentioning something you learned about the company or interviewer, and reminding them of your qualifications. Also, make your subject line catchy and specific to catch the interviewer's attention. Finally, make your note stand out by including a call to action that demonstrates your problem-solving skills. By doing this, you will leave a lasting impression on the interviewer as a proactive and thoughtful candidate.
To ensure the right timing for your thank you note, you shouldn't send it too early or too late. It's best to send a thank you email within 24 to 48 hours after the interview so that you can capitalize on the positive impression you made. However, before pressing the send button, wait a couple of hours as sending it too soon may make you appear insincere or rushed as advised by both Siegel and Hyman.