Been interviewed recently? Had a great info interview? Gotten an introduction to someone helpful?
It’s time to write a thank-you!
This can be one of those deceptively simple tasks. We’ve all written thank-yous before, right? But it’s somehow different when it’s for something professional—more intimidating, less clear, a bit more overwhelming.
Here’s how to do it well.
First, get the contact info of the person or people you’re thanking. You can choose if email or a hand-written note makes more sense, or you can double down and do both. (Email benefit: it’s so quick and you know it will get to them right away; card benefit: who even gets cards anymore? They’re so nice!) Either way, make sure you have everyone’s name spelled correctly (you can call HR if you’re not sure). You may absolutely address the people the way they said to in the interview. For instance, if the person you spoke with was Susan Smith and she asked you to call her Sue, feel free to do so. If she didn’t say anything, use what you know about the industry, the workplace, and where you live to decide how to address the people. (Side note: if you interviewed with a woman or someone who gave you she/her pronouns, your default formal address is “Ms. So-and-So” unless she specifically said otherwise.)
Next, mention something specific: a task at which you would excel, a shared interest, a moment in the interview. If you feel you didn’t answer a particular question well, you may opt to revisit it here, as well.
Then re-state your interest in the job or company. If you’re thanking someone for an informational interview, make sure to reiterate your interest in new connections in the field. Feel free sharing your enthusiasm here.
Be sure to avoid typos or other errors in your note, though. If you struggle with grammar or spelling, check out a free tool like Grammarly. Also avoid going into too much detail or asking for favors. The note should be short, warm, and professional.
Good luck with your notes of gratitude!
