The post-interview thank you note has been one of the standard tips for job seekers after an interview. However, it seems that the post job interview Thank You note is falling out of favor with younger job applicants. One study showed that “only a quarter of entry-level job applicants sent a note to hiring managers after interviews in 2017.”
That’s a pretty startling statistic. I wonder why people stopped getting the message that a Thank You note was an essential part of the job interview process. This is true even if you don’t get the job. The world is a small place and little things like a well-written thank you note can set you apart from other candidates and is something they will remember even if they end up not hiring you this time around.
While the statistics show the trend of moving away from Thank You notes, that actually presents a great opportunity for job seekers. When others stop doing something, that’s the perfect opportunity for you to set yourself apart by doing it.
I know that many really appreciate a handwritten note, I don’t think it necessarily has to be handwritten. In fact, I don’t think it necessarily needs to be sent by snail mail either. For some positions that might make sense and I know many people appreciate the handwritten note. However, if the note is well written, it can be just as impactful by email.
That last part is really the key. Make sure that your Thank You note is personalized and heartfelt. If your thank you note comes off as a cookie-cutter impersonal form letter, then it probably won’t hurt but it also won’t help much either.
Take a minute to think about ways you can sincerely compliment the company and the people you met on your job interview. Don’t try and add extra platitudes that make it feel fake. However, do share what attracted you to the position, the company, and the people you met. Thank them for taking time out of their busy schedule for you.
The Thank You note may continue to evolve, but something that will never go out of style is gratitude. Try it in your job search and throughout your career. You’ll be amazed by the results.
