Mastering Post-Interview Etiquette: Thank You Emails and Follow-Ups
After a job interview, you might be thinking about the next steps. You’ve shared your experiences and presented your skills. But what should you do next? Following up with a thank you email is key.
Sending a thank you note or email after an interview is important. It distinguishes you from other candidates and shows your enthusiasm for the position. Here's why it's beneficial and how to do it effectively.
Why Send a Thank You Email After an Interview?
The interview process is crucial, and your thank you email is the final step. A well-crafted thank you message can reinforce the positive impression you made. It shows professionalism, courtesy, and genuine interest in the role and the company.
A thank you message is also an opportunity to recap key points from the interview. You can elaborate on a question you didn’t answer fully or mention an achievement you overlooked. This is your chance to provide more context.
When to Send a Thank You Email
Timing matters. Aim to send your thank you message within 24 hours of your interview. This shows your enthusiasm while giving you time to reflect on the meeting.
Remember that weekends or holidays may delay your message. Keeping the 24-hour rule in mind will help you appear prompt and professional.
Crafting the Perfect Thank You Email
Now that you recognize the importance of sending a thank you message, how do you write one that makes an impact? Use this simple formula:
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Subject Line: Keep it clear and professional. Use phrases like “Thank You for the Opportunity” or “Great Speaking with You.”
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Personal Greetings: Open with a personal greeting, using the interviewer's name for a more personal touch.
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Express Appreciation: Start by expressing your appreciation for the interview and their time.
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Reaffirm Interest: Clearly restate your enthusiasm for the job and the company.
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Highlight a Talking Point: Mention a specific moment or topic from the interview that you enjoyed or where you felt confident.
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Add Value: Briefly highlight why you're a great fit for the role, linking to a project or achievement that demonstrates your relevant skills.
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Closing Remarks: End with a professional sign-off, reiterating your thanks and indicating that you look forward to their decision.
Following Up If You Haven't Heard Back
Sometimes the wait after sending a thank you email can be long. If you haven’t heard anything after a week beyond when they said they would follow up, it’s okay to send a polite inquiry.
Restate your interest in the position and ask if there are any updates.
Your follow-up should be a gentle reminder of your enthusiasm, not an aggressive push. Maintaining this balance is important.
The thank you email is more than just a formality. It reflects your professionalism and communication skills. It shows your understanding of workplace etiquette and your eagerness for the role.
