How to write a thank you email after a job interview

Landing a job interview is a big deal, especially when you’re just starting out in your career journey. But once the interview is over, there’s an important step that can set you apart from other candidates: writing a thank you email after the interview. While it might seem like a small gesture, it’s one that can leave a lasting impression. Let's dive into why a thank you email is crucial and how you can craft one that stands out.

Why send a thank you email?

Sending a thank you email after an interview is more than just good manners — it’s your chance to reinforce the positive impression you made during the interview and to remind the interviewer of your enthusiasm for the role. Think of it as your opportunity to keep the conversation going and show that you’re genuinely interested in the position.

Once your interview is over, aim to send your thank you email within 24 hours. This ensures the conversation is still fresh in the interviewer’s mind. A prompt follow-up also shows that you’re organized and respectful of their time.

How to craft your message

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So, what should you include in your thank you email? Here’s a simple structure to follow:

1. Subject line: Keep it clear and professional. Something like “Thank You for the Opportunity” or “Appreciate Your Time and Consideration” works well.

2. Greeting: Address the interviewer by name. If you’re unsure about the spelling, double-check it on the company’s website or LinkedIn.

3. Express gratitude: Start by thanking them for the opportunity to interview. Mention something specific from your conversation that you enjoyed or found insightful.

4. Highlight your fit: Briefly remind them why you’re a strong candidate for the role. Highlight your skills or experiences that align with the job requirements.

5. Address any concerns: If there was something you didn't get to mention during the interview, now’s your chance. Maybe you forgot to discuss a relevant project or skill — now you can include it.

6. Closing: Wrap it up with a positive note about looking forward to the next steps. Offer to provide any additional information they might need.

Sample thank you email

Here’s an example to guide you as you write your own email:

Subject: Thank You for the Opportunity

Hi [Interviewer's Name],

Thank you so much for the opportunity to interview for the [Position] role at [Company]. I truly enjoyed our conversation about [Specific Topic Discussed] and learning more about the exciting work your team is doing.

I am very enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company] and contributing to [Mention a Specific Goal or Project]. I believe my skills in [Mention a Relevant Skill or Experience] would be a great match for the team.

Please let me know if there’s anything else you need from my side. I look forward to the possibility of working together and contributing to [Company’s Name].

Thanks once again for the opportunity and your time.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Common mistakes to avoid

Of course, as you’re writing your thank you email, you’ll want to be aware of what not to do. Here are some common mistakes to avoid making when writing a thank you email. 

1. Being too formal or casual: Finding the right balance in tone is important. You want to sound professional but not robotic. At the same time, avoid using slang or emoji that might come across as too casual.

2. Overloading with information: Keep your email concise and to the point. The recruiter or hiring manager is likely busy, so aim to be clear and succinct.

3. Forgetting to proofread: Spelling or grammatical errors can detract from your professionalism. Take a moment to proofread your email before hitting send.

Writing a thank you email after an interview doesn’t have to be daunting. With a clear structure and genuine enthusiasm, you can craft a message that keeps you at the forefront of the interviewer’s mind. Remember, this small step could make a big difference in your job search journey. So, take the time to send a thoughtful thank you email and put your best foot forward. Good luck!

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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.