How to write a post-interview thank you email like a boss

Why you should send a job interview thank you email

Sending a thank you note after a job interview might seem overly formal or out-of-date, but a quick, thoughtful email can help you stand out from the crowd. When applying for a new position, every opportunity to make a good impression counts.

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A post-interview thank you email should do more than just express gratitude. An effective thank you note also includes information from your interview and resume to remind your interviewer of your strengths. It’s also a great opportunity to show your professional writing skills. With a well-written thank you email; your interviewer will feel confident in your abilities to communicate with other colleagues. Use this email to convey your interest in the position and your enthusiasm for the company.

While a thank you note won’t be the only determining factor in a hiring decision, it can make a small but important impact on your candidacy. Although not all hiring managers expect a follow-up thank you email, many still do. Don’t risk making a poor impression by skipping out on this easy step.

What to include in your thank you note

Every thank you note you send should be unique, even if you meet with multiple interviewers from the same company. Write a personalized thank you email that includes these essential elements.

Eye-catching subject line

Most post-interview notes use “Thank You” as a subject line. While this subject line is appropriate, it’s not personal enough to stand out. If an interviewer has spoken with multiple candidates, your email might get lost in their inbox. You don’t need to create an over-the-top subject line in order to catch their eye. Simply adding your first and last name at the end of the subject line makes it stand out when someone scans their emails.

Genuine gratitude

Don’t send a thank you note that feels obligatory or fake—make sure you’re sincere when expressing gratitude. Specifically point out why you’re sending the thank you note, even if it’s as simple as thanking your interviewer for taking the time to speak with you about the position.

Something specific you discussed

If an interviewer has spoken with multiple candidates in one day, they might not remember you immediately. Mention something you discussed during your interview to help them remember you better. While it’s a great idea to use this email to bring up something specific about the position or the company, you can also bring up other, more personal topics. If you share common interests or went to the same alma mater, bringing up these details can help your interviewer remember you.

Your interest in the role

Although applying to a job shows interest, take any additional opportunity to express that interest. Hiring managers want employees who show passion for their work and interest in the company. While you can simply include a sentence or two reiterating your interest, try using more expressive words to stand out. Noting that you are excited or enthusiastic about the prospect of the position makes it clear your interest is genuine. Add a few details about the role or company that excites you the most!

Impactful details

A thank you email after a job interview provides a great opportunity to make one last impression. Depending on how the interview went and what job you’re applying for, you can include additional information to make an impact. Consider adding clarifying info about questions asked during the interview. For example, if your interviewer asked you about your contributions in your current social media management role, you could follow up with specific numbers on how you’ve grown your company’s online presence. You can also add a few sentences explicitly detailing why you’d be a great fit for the position. Be specific about what aspects of your professional experience equips you for the role.

Tips for following up after a job interview

Once you’ve drafted a thank you email that includes the most important information, don’t press send just yet. Timing matters when sending a follow-up—aim for emailing your interviewer within 24 to 48 hours of your interview. For example, if you interview on a Friday, sending an email on Monday makes it less likely to get lost in the shuffle. If you interview during the week, try to send an email the next business day.

While you can email immediately after an interview, waiting at least a few hours allows you to remind your interviewer of your candidacy. You’ll still be fresh in their mind right after they speak to you, so waiting at least a few hours gives you another opportunity to make an impression.

Improving your resume and polishing your cover letter are some of the most important parts of a strong application process, but don’t underestimate the impact of a well-written thank you email. Express your genuine gratitude and take the opportunity to make one last impression with a thoughtful note.