Thank you notes. Are they really necessary? Elaine Varelas says “yes” and explains why
After an interview or a networking meeting, you've probably heard that you should follow up with a thank you note. Whether it's handwritten or over email, you may not be sure what the etiquette really is. Elaine Varelas explains why you should always follow up with a thank you note, what to write in them, and how to send them.
Q: Should I really send thank you notes after an interview or a job fair? It feels silly and pushy. What do I write in them, or what if I didn’t feel like we connected?A:
Thank you notes are an expected and welcome part of networking and all job search activity. It’s not pushy or silly, and sending a note shows that you have given thought to your interactions with that individual. You have the opportunity to confirm your interest in the opportunity you discussed. You will want to include a review of the conversation you had in which you are also able to express why you are a good fit for the role. A note reminds people of who you are, and it thanks people for their time, information they shared with you, and maybe even for their candor. It is not a time to ask questions, but to express gratitude and an offer to reciprocate for a networking meeting, as well as reiterating the match between your skills and communicating your excitement about the job opportunity.
If you didn’t connect, it’s probably even more important to write that thank you. Take a look at the reason why – was it something you did or didn’t say? This gives you the opportunity to take one last shot at making that connection. Maybe you can reinforce a topic that you didn’t answer as strongly in the interview as you would have liked. It’s also your last sales opportunity to connect the interviewer with your expertise.
A strong email thank you is acceptable, but you need to give it some thought – not just a one-line thanks. People do read for content. Letters and hand-written notes are also acceptable. However, if you’re going to send a card, you want to make sure you use one that is simple and professional. A beautiful, flowery card may be appropriate for a baby shower, but not for a recruiter. It certainly might influence them, but not in the way that you desire. Instead, you may want to invest in a set of cards with your initials, keeping them simple and clean.
Thank you notes absolutely make a difference. The majority of people don’t send them, and when they’re missing, it’s noticed. When they arrive, however, it checks that final box that you are a candidate who recognizes the etiquette of the job search, networking, and interviewing processes, and that’s important for getting ahead.
There is never a reason not to send a thank you note, even if the interview went horribly, you’re not right for the job, and you both left knowing that. Professional relationships are built one small action at a time, and it makes a mark in someone’s mind that you are a professional – and that’s what you want to be known for.
