The Lost Art of Thank-You Notes

A note can go a long way, especially in a digital age. Embracing a culture of gratitude and what it says about you.

A recruiting process is a two-way street. Though it may appear that the company you are interviewing for holds all the cards, it is important to remember that they have the power to extend the offer that you will then choose whether to accept or decline. If you have a positive experience that strengthens your impression of an organization, it is in your best interest to increase your chances of standing out from other applicants by sending a memorable thank-you note. This gesture could even be the deciding factor.

Though the interview may have been your only one on a given day, it is likely that your interviewer had spoken with multiple candidates. A thank-you note is a great way to thank them for the opportunity and their time, briefly highlight your continued interest in the role, and remind the interviewer of the points that made your conversation unique. It also opens a door for follow-up interaction, making it easier to continue an open dialogue regarding the role.

In an age where technology enables us to operate at a quicker pace, the handwritten note is often replaced with an email. This makes it easier to write and deliver instantly, so it is customary to send the note within 24 hours of the interview. However, this does not mean that it should be generic. There are many ways to send a distinctive thank-you note, including an e-card with the company’s logo. Regardless of format, the goal remains the same; to infuse a personal approach in putting your name back in front of the interviewer. You should also consider sending a thank-you note to anyone else who may have aided in your recruitment process, including an HR contact or an office coordinator.

A thank-you note isn’t an outdated practice. It isn’t designed for the sole purpose of making an interviewer feel good about themselves. Instead, it serves as an opportunity to demonstrate enthusiasm, gratitude, and professionalism. It allows the recipient to further gage the way you think and write. Most importantly, it forces them to think about you, even if it is only for an additional 30 seconds. That is their time that you didn’t have before, and it could make all the difference in the next step of your career.