A friend shared an article advocating that candidates stop sending thank you notes after interviews. “It’s an archaic, ridiculous practice,” one comment read. Call me a dinosaur, but what harm could it do? I have evolved from insisting the note be handwritten to making peace with email, but I still think that not doing them is forfeiting an opportunity.
A post-interview thank you note, in my opinion, should include something that could not have been written before the interview. You could reference a specific exchange that occurred, highlight additional skills that relate to what was discussed or comment on a specific project/aspect of the work that was shared with you in the interview. I think it gives you another chance to share something about yourself, shows you have manners, and keeps your name top of mind. Why wouldn’t you do one?
Yes, the job market favors the candidates right now, but if you’re interviewing, presumably you want the job. Take advantage of every avenue to impress, including with a well-crafted and timely follow-up note.
Thanks, Emily!
