Send a Thank-You Note
Eighteen easy tips to send a thank-you note, so you finish with warmth and stay in their mind.
A note stands out. Send within a day.
25 tips that really help
These ideas come from Knock ’Em Dead (Martin Yate), Power Questions (Andrew Sobel and Jerold Panas), Never Split the Difference (Chris Voss), and everyday practice. Pick one tip and try it today.
Why thank-you notes matter
Few candidates send one. A kind note shows manners and keeps you fresh in their mind.
Send one.
Write notes right after
Jot down names and details soon after you leave. Memory fades fast.
Write notes.
Send within twenty-four hours
Quick notes feel thoughtful. Aim for the same day.
Send soon.
Thank each person
If you met several, send short notes to each. Add a different detail for each.
Thank each.
Mention one detail
Say what you enjoyed or learned. A detail proves you listened.
Add one detail.
Restate your interest
Say you are excited about the role. Be warm and clear.
Show interest.
Add something you forgot
If you wish, add one helpful point. Keep it short.
Add a line.
Proofread
Mistakes hurt, so read it twice. Check names and titles.
Proofread.
Script: thanks
Thank you for meeting with me today, I enjoyed learning about your team. Say it warmly.
Use it.
Script: interest
I am excited about the role and believe I could help with your customer goals. Say it clearly.
Use it.
Script: close
I look forward to hearing from you, and thank you again. Say it kindly.
Use it.
Mistake: sending a long note
Long notes feel heavy, so keep to a short paragraph.
Keep short.
Troubleshoot: when you forgot names
Check the company website or ask the recruiter. Be honest.
Check names.
Troubleshoot: when you feel awkward
Keep it simple: thanks, one detail and interest. That is enough.
Keep simple.
Drill: write a template
Write a short thank-you template with space for details.
Write it.
Drill: send one note after your next meeting
Send a thank-you note after any meeting this week.
Send one.
Keep it to five sentences
Short notes get read. Aim for five.
Cut to five.
Send individually if possible
Different details for each person show care.
Customise.
Example: the quick email
Thank you for today. I loved hearing about your new project and I would be glad to help.
Write one.
Example: the handwritten card
Mei sent a card to a small company. The owner pinned it on the wall.
Send a card.
Mistake: asking about the result again
Do not chase. Say thanks and wait.
Do not push.
Troubleshoot: when you do not have emails
Ask the recruiter to pass your thanks.
Ask the recruiter.
Mention a topic from the interview that you enjoyed
One detail from your talk shows that you listened, and it helps them remember you among many candidates.
Pick a detail.
Offer to share a sample or idea if helpful
Offering a small idea or sample can show your skills, so add one short line if it fits the job.
Add a line.
Keep a friendly and professional tone
A warm and respectful tone feels natural, so avoid slang and long jokes in your thank-you note.
Read it aloud.
Easy things to say
When you are stuck, pick one of these. They work in many networking and career moments.
“Thank you for meeting me.”
“I enjoyed hearing about this.”
“I am excited about this chance.”
“One more thing I would like to add.”
“I look forward to hearing from you.”
“With thanks.”
Your first week
One small action a day. Each day is only a little bigger than the last.
Write notes after
Pick a detail
Write the note
Add a line
Proofread
Send within a day
Follow up
Further reading
- Knock ’Em Dead (Martin Yate)
- Power Questions (Andrew Sobel and Jerold Panas)
- Never Split the Difference (Chris Voss)
The tips above are written in our own words and are general guidance. The books are suggestions for further reading.
More lessons in “Acing Job Interviews”
Keep going. Small steps every day make a big change.
← Previous: Ask Smart QuestionsNext: Learn From Every Interview →
- Research the Company
- Prepare Three Stories
- Practise Common Questions
- Calm Your Nerves Before You Go In
- Make a Strong First Impression
- Answer Clearly and Kindly
- Answer "Tell Me About Yourself"
- Answer Weakness and Failure Questions
- Answer Salary Questions Calmly
- Ask Smart Questions
- Send a Thank-You Note
- Learn From Every Interview
