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The Thank You email is not always necessary, in fact, sometimes recruiters will advise against it. However, when it is called for, it is important to make sure the email is portraying the interviewee in the best light. There is no scaffolding for the Thank You email as it will ultimately be dependent on the role, company, and industry. However, the infographic above works as a launching pad for sending the perfect Thank You email.

Include all Interviewers

A common mistake made by interviewees is that they will only email the person with whom the majority of their communication has been. It is best to actually include everyone with whom you interviewed as they are all a part of the decision-making process and omitting any of them will come across as exclusionary and also sloppy.

Have a Detailed Subject Line

The subject line of the email is crucial for setting apart your email from others. It’s also what will entice the receiver to click and open it. Therefore the subject line should be strong and detailed in regards to the purpose of the email, and the position for which you interviewed.

Remind Them About Yourself

The purpose of the email is not to continue talking yourself up, however, gratitude should be cushioned with a reminder of your excitement about the job, the company and why you might be a perfect fit given your skills. It should not come across as gloating and certainly should not mirror what was said in the interview but leave them feeling that you would be an asset to their company.

Offer Evidence

Signing off with some links that may allow them to delve further into getting to know you leave a lasting impression. However, it’s important once again, that it doesn’t come across as too intense. Rather it should almost appear like it is a part of your email signature.

Proofread

Just like any email you send, and furthermore any email contact you may have had with the company, it is crucial that the Thank You email is grammatically correct and professional in manner. Sometimes the Thank You email is the only contact a candidate has with the employer directly because all communication preceding it is via the recruiter. Thus it needs to be impeccable as it is, just like the resume, a true representation of yourself in written form.

Send it ASAP

Although a sense of urgency should not compromise the quality of the email, it is vital that the email is sent no later than 24 hours after the interview. Interviewers want to see that attaining the job is a high priority for you and that you are diligent in following up on business matters, the interview included. Timeliness of the email ensures you are still on the minds of the interviewers and the polished content of the email will ensure you stay on their minds.

Lauren Lantieri: “The importance of a Thank You email is immense. It is both crucial and beneficial for you and the employer. It shows the employer that you are committed and humbled by the opportunity to be a part of their firm. It also gives you the chance to sell yourself on how you could be an asset to their firm. Sending a Thank You email can ultimately be the deciding factor on the part of the employer.”