Should You Send a Post-Interview Thank You Letter?

A post-interview thank you letter used to be a widely accepted custom of the job-hunting process. Do you still need to send a thank you letter? Nowadays, the majority of our applications are done online. You’ll see a position you like on a job board then apply on the company website, or by sending an email containing your CV and Cover Letter to the hiring manager. Because of this, sending an actual letter of thanks to the company seems a little outdated.

Why would you send a thank you letter?

Sending a thank you letter can add a positive impression to an already successful interview. It reminds the employer that you’re still interested and might help them to remember your interview more clearly. Additionally, not every candidate will send a thank you letter and therefore you will inevitably stand out from the crowd.

Will it make a difference?

Realistically, sending a thank you letter is not going to be the make or break decision of whether or not you get the job. Nonetheless, a well-crafted and well-timed thank you letter can only reflect well in your favour.

What should you say?

If you do decide to send a thank you letter it’s important that you say the right thing. Use your letter to thank your interviewer for their time, and for considering your application. Let them know that you’re still interested in the position and leave your contact information at the bottom. It can be beneficial to end on a friendly note such as ‘it was nice to meet you,’ or ‘I enjoyed talking to you about the role.’

Send an email

If you do decide to send a letter, it is better to send an email. Although sending an actual letter used to be the standard way of thanking your interviewer, now it seems outdated and too formal. We would suggest sending a short email of thanks to the person you have been in contact with.

Summary

At the end of the day, whether or not you chose to send a thank you letter to your interviewer is a matter of personal preference. Yes, it might add value to your application, but not sending a thank you will not retract from your application either. Our advice would be to go with your gut and do what feels natural in your given situation.