The thank you note is a very important step in the interview (whether for an actual position or for information only) process. Although you may hear some employers say sending a thank-you note is a waste of time, generally, employers like them. Even if the interview (or the interviewer) wasn’t your favorite, and/or you are not interested in the position, it is important to say thank you for the time the interviewer spent with you. Also, if all of the other candidates send a thank you note and you fail to do so, then the thank you note could make the difference between receiving an offer or not. And a well-written note may enhance your candidacy if you follow these few guidelines:

1. Send your thank-you note as soon as possible after the contact:
If your note arrives after the hiring decision has been made, it will have little impact. Try to send the letters within 24 hours of the interviews, a maximum of two days later.

2. Personalize each letter:
When interviewing with several people at one organization, take a few seconds between interviews to jot down some notes about each conversation. Also, remember to ask for a business card at the conclusion of each interview - that way you’ll have the contact information for you thank you letters. Use your interview notes when writing individualized thank you letters to each interviewer. When sending letters to several people at an organization, each letter does not need to be completely different from the rest. But don’t send identical letters to several people - your letters will generally all end up in your file in the Human Resources department.

3. Use the note to confirm your serious interest in and/or qualifications for the position, but keep the letter SHORT:
The letter should only be one-page with a suggested format of three brief paragraphs:

1st paragraph: Express your appreciation (for the interview, for the opportunity to discuss the position at the career fair, etc.) Mention the date of the contact.

2nd paragraph: Personalize it! For example: mention something that you learned that enhanced your interest in the position or a skill of experience that you were not able to discuss during your contact. Or, mention a person who was especially helpful and tell your reader why.

3rd paragraph: Reaffirm your interest in the position. Tell the employer that you look forward to hearing from them.