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Do You Need to Write a Thank-You Note After an Interview?

You just finished interviewing for that job you really want. It’s a perfect fit for you, and you for it—and you’re pretty sure you nailed the interview. Do you really need to send a thank-you note, or was your stellar performance enough? And are thank-you notes even still a thing?

 

Yes, you do… no, it was not… and absolutely, yes, thank-you notes are still very much a thing.

 

You may be the best person for the role—and in that moment, the interviewer may also agree. But, in a landscape where multiple candidates can present similarly impressive qualifications and interview prowess, it’s the post-interview nuances that can tip the scales in your favor.

 

Here are four reasons why you should send a post-interview thank-you note:

 

  1. Demonstrates respect and appreciation: Expressing gratitude through a thank-you note is a gesture of professionalism that acknowledges the interviewer’s effort and time. Failing to do so is often perceived as disrespectful. When surveyed, nearly a third of hiring managers said they have doubts about a candidate who skips this step, while close to 15% said it’s a dealbreaker.1

 

  1. Reinforces interest: A thank-you note reinforces your enthusiasm in the role and interest in the company. It also serves as a tangible reminder of your unique qualifications and the value you can bring to their team, further setting you apart from other applicants.

 

  1. Keeps you top of mind: In a competitive job market where multiple candidates are vying for one role, a thank-you note is an added touch that keeps the conversation going even after the interview, ensuring they remember who you are and what you bring to the table.

 

  1. Strengthens your personal brand: Your personal brand matters when you’re competing for a job. Sending a thoughtful thank-you note reinforces your personal brand by reminding the interviewer who you are, what makes you different, and the value you offer, helping you leave a lasting impression.

 

Before you hit send…

Now that you’ve decided a thank-you note is undoubtedly the way to go, here are some best practices to guide your approach:

  • Send it within the first 24 hours following the interview
  • Personalize your message to reflect your conversation
  • If you interviewed with multiple people, send a note to each one separately to demonstrate your attention to detail and appreciation for each individual’s time and insight
  • Highlight your unique value proposition—what you have to offer that others might not
  • Use a professional yet warm tone to convey authenticity and eagerness
  • Proofread meticulously to avoid any errors that could undermine your professionalism

 

A thank-you note is a small gesture that can make a big difference. Don’t neglect this simple yet highly effective tool that can demonstrate your appreciation and professionalism. While it may seem like a minor detail, it’s a powerful way to increase your chances of moving forward in the hiring process.

For more information, contact Rupa Desai or another recruiter at J2 Solutions today! https://nsl.ink/d8NO

 

1https://www.themuse.com/advice/everything-youve-ever-wanted-to-know-about-thank-you-notes

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