How to Write an Interview Thank You Note

Sending a note of thanks to a potential employer is a professional courtesy that can give you the "extra points" following an interview.

Steps

1. Compose, write and mail your thank you note as soon as possible following the interview; preferably on the day of the interview. Your note may be handwritten or typed.
2. Use good quality note paper or note cards that will be mailed in a matching envelope. Stay with note paper/cards of a neutral shade (beige, off-white, subtle grey, etc., no color). You may use a card having the words "Thank You" imprinted on the front; however, the font and/or type should be simple and professionally elegant. A note card that bears a small, graphic design is acceptable; such as a narrow colored border stripe. Avoid using note cards or note paper that bear a decorative picture. And no scented or fragranced paper!
3. Date the note in full: January 10, 2006 and not 01/10/06
4. Greet the interviewer: Dear Mr. Smith, or Dear Ms. Smith.
5. Write your message. Be direct, be personable without being personal. Use good grammar. Your message should not be longer than 2 short paragraphs.
6. Begin by giving recognition to the interviewer and the company: Paragraph One Example: "It was my pleasure to meet with you this afternoon regarding the Marketing Director's position with XYZ Enterprises. Thank you for the brief history of XYZ, and for providing me with a glimpse at XYZ's future growth plans. They are both quite impressive."
7. Give recognition to yourself: Mention something from the interview that will prompt the initerviewer to remember you individiually. Paragraph Two Example: "I came away from our interview with a strong sense that my qualifications and experience are an excellent match to the Marketing Director's position. I believe that by sharing my skills and ideas with the talented XYZ team, and while gaining the knowledge and plans of my colleagues, we will achieve the profitable goals you've described. I anticipate speaking with you again soon."
8. Close your message with "Respectfully"or "Sincerely."
9. If your note has been typed, type your name, then sign it in blue ink.
10. Address the envelope with the full name and title of the interviewer on the first line: Mr. Howard J. Smith, Vice President of Marketing. The second line of the address is the company name: XYZ Enterprises., the third and fourth lines are for the full mailing address and zip code.
11. Include your name and address in the return address area of the envelope; not on the back.

Tips

• If sending an email thank you letter, compose a good portion of it prior to your interview. After the interview, add the finishing touches and send it off. This allows for fastest delivery and minimal effort after the interview.
• Check for accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation. Have at least one other person proof-read your message.
• If you hand-write your message and make a mistake, start over on a fresh note card. No crossing out, no corrective products.
• Verify the correct spelling of the interviewer's name and his/her exact title. Contact the company's receptionist or Human Resources department, if necessary.
• Use the words "You" and "yours" more than the words "I" "me" and "mine." The word "you" is one of the 12 most persuasive words in the English language. It is up there with "money" "guarantee" and "health." Ex. Instead of: "I want to thank you for meeting with me." It is more powerful to write, "Thank you for the meeting."
• Refer to your interview as a "meeting" in your note. It subconsciously put you on more even footing. Every edge counts when it comes to salary negotiating.