You just finished your interview and you nailed it. You answered every interview question using the best interview tips and practices. You drive home and daydream about what your life will look like in this new role. Then the next day, you receive the generic ‘thanks but no thanks’ email that you were not offered the position. How could this be?
You could completely nail every single aspect of the interview but not be the final chosen candidate because of one small but monumental gesture you failed - writing the thank you note. Let’s say the organization interviewed both you and someone else for the position and that other person also nailed the interview. You didn’t send a follow up and the other candidate did. That thank you note could have been the feather to tip the job offer scales in your favor.
The thank you note can vary and is not rigid or set in stone. Now, it is best to send your thank you letter via email, as they are time sensitive and leave an initial, lasting impression - one that could seal your next job offer.
You letter should have a few key items:
Address the correct individual(s)
Say “thank you”
Re-state how you’d add value to the organization
Drop something personal you talked about
Invite additional follow up
Your salutation
See the template below:
Good Afternoon [Interviewer Name],
Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the [position title] position at [organization name]. I appreciate the hospitality I was shown from the entirety of the staff, ranging from [name] ensuring my travel arrangements went smoothly, all the way to [name] taking me on a detailed tour of the organization on the way to the airport.
The investment [organization name] places in each team member is evident, and I was able to see first-hand how the organization functions so efficiently and effectively. I value your philosophies placed on collaborative successes within the office, high expectations of team members, and the dedication to abiding by ethical standards within the profession. My previous work at [organization name] for the past 6 years aligns with the mission of [organization name] and I’m excited to bring my practice and knowledge in successfully managing cross-functional initiatives to the role.
I would be honored to work alongside your team and under your leadership. I am excited for the opportunity to join the [organization name], and again sincerely thank you for your time. I would greatly appreciate you sharing my sincere thanks with the other members of the team, I look forward to hearing from you about the next steps in the hiring process. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can provide any additional information.
Best,
[your name]
Now, let’s say you had an incredible interview, followed up, and STILL haven’t heard back. Know that sometimes hiring decisions can take a significant amount of time. It is appropriate to follow up via email or phone to check the status of your application/candidacy about 2 weeks after your most recent interaction. Checking your status the day after the interview can come off as overbearing and desperate, ultimately rubbing the hiring manager the wrong way. Be patient even though you are excited about the potential employment opportunity.
