Posted in Career Best Practices

Thank You Notes: Written or Email? Why You Should Send Them.

Two words that are less than ten characters can change the meaning behind or in front of any message- “Thank You!”

Whether someone gave you their time, gave advice, gave you mentoring, gave support, or gave you an interview; saying the words “Thank You” can mean just as much to them as their time, advice, or interview meant to you. If it’s an interview you’re thanking for then it’s important to thank everyone you interviewed with and everyone who may have assisted in getting you that interview. But it’s not just the act of saying “thank you”; it’s when you say “thank you” that can make all the difference. Here are some tips from Pridestaff Financial on why you should say “thank you” and how you should send it.

Make an impression.
You may think everyone does it, but according to a recent survey less than 5% of job applicants “thank” a potential employer for an interview. Even less than that send thank you’s after a second interview. Those that do send “thank you” letters do not send them out within the first 24 to 48 hours after an interview, which, according to recruiters in the field, say is the most critical time to send them; while the candidate is still fresh in their mind. If you want to stand out from the crowd send a personal “thank you” note or card, and send it within 48 hours of your interview. This small gesture could be the deciding vote between you and another candidate.

Hand written vs. email.
While hand written thank you’s are more personal, there are a few pitfalls in sending these types of “thank you’s”. First- depending on your hand writing, these types of “thank you’s” may be hard to read to the interviewer; sending them an entirely different type of message than the one your trying to get across. Second- Hand written letters take longer to get to the intended party. It is called snail mail for a reason, and if you’re trying to get a thank you out while your interview is still fresh in the interviewer’s mind then this may not be the best approach. Plus there is always the chance that your letter either gets lost in the mail, ends up in a pile of envelopes that dosen’t get opened for months, or lands in the hands of a secretary who accidentally throws it out. Emailing a thank you note gives you two things: speed, and simplicity. Many think a quick email note is impersonnal and unprofessional. Depending on the scenario, they may be right. But in the case of interviewing, sending an email “thank you” is efficient, easy, and the right approach. You can easily tailor it to the vibe of the interview and make it as professional or casual as you like. Plus emails are readily more accessible for the interviewer; should they have a follow up question for you or choose to respond to your “thank you”.

Know your audience.
You are the best judge to determine if the interview you went on is a more formal affair. Base how you say “thank you” on the style and personality type of those you interviewed with. That will guide how you compose your “thank you” letter and whether sending a hand written letter versus an email will suffice.

At Pridestaff Financial we understand how competitive the market can be. We want you to not only do well during the interview, but to continue standing out after the interview ends!