I Get this Question 20x's a Week

Do I need to write a thank you note after an interview?

Well....let's think about this for a minute. What do you want to accomplish with this note?

As a leader, recognized in the field of recruiting, I sat on both sides of this question. So let me unpack my thoughts for you. A thank you note is an opportunity to recap the interview, demonstrate you were listening and ask any additional questions from the content received. Is that how your thank you notes read? Or, through not sending them, have you missed out on this opportunity? "But Laureen, aren't thank you notes dated? I hardly even send cards anymore?" Thank you notes aren't dated. The why, how and the delivery have changed.

Why? I mentioned this above. When I receive a thank you note that is relevant and constructive, I read it. I want to read it. It provides a different lens into the experience I am having with a candidate. It is a testament to how they learn and communicate. Since so many do not send them, it is truly a "surprise" when I receive one. It separates interest levels and can contribute to a hiring decision, either way.

How? Email is how we communicate today. How you communicate in your thank you email provides an example of your professional communication. What does this mean? Take pride in your writing and use spell check. Most importantly, check in on your tone. Refrain from the use of lingo such as "LOL", "TY", or any other common texting or social media acronyms or you reader might just say "WTF".

Delivery? Do I send a personalized, handwritten note or an email? My recommendation is to always send an email. Personalized notes can get lost in the mailroom or delayed in delivery. Unless you paid for some fancy, business type, expensive, glossy thank you notes, it really won't make an impression. Truly.

Another great way to say thank you is through the Linked In platform. It is a way to draw a prospective employer into your profile which, if properly designed, is an overview of what makes you...you; as opposed to a resume, which should be an accounting of your responsibilities, accomplishments and results.

Technological advancements provide a new and profound way to use what is proper in a more directed way. Saying thank you for the opportunity to explore a career at a company and for having valuable time with leaders who don't necessarily have the time, can make a huge impact. I believe it is reciprocal. If you don't get the job, you gained a new connection or colleague. It is a win/win.

So the answer is, send the note!