Maximize Your Impact With a Post-Interview Thank-You Note

Sometimes the smallest actions leave the biggest impression. One of the simplest ways to differentiate yourself after an interview is a thank you note, just two minutes that has the ability to tip the scales in the candidate’s favor.

After an interview, a quick thank you can:

• Keep you top of mind with the hiring team
• Close the loop on unanswered questions or lingering thoughts
• Reinforce your genuine interest in the company’s mission
• Humanize your connection beyond resumes, checklists, and interview scripts

One of my favorite examples: a candidate followed up with a hiring manager by sending the recipe they had talked about during the interview. Small? Yes. Memorable? Absolutely!

Why it matters (backed by data)

Firsthand stories and examples are good but there is also data to show why this practice carries weight:

• A 2023 article from Robert Half reinforces that sending a thank-you note within 24 hours of an interview helps candidates leave a lasting, positive impression. It reaffirms your interest in the position and provides an opportunity to emphasize your qualifications. An older Robert Half survey found that 80% of HR managers said they take thank-you messages into account when deciding who to hire, yet only 24% of applicants actually send them. (Kate – This data is from 2017 – Is that too old)
• According to Forbes, sending a thank-you note demonstrates a candidate’s level of interest in the role and indicates persuasive writing and communication skills.

These articles reinforce what many recruiters already know: following up with a thank you message and doing it well can give you an edge.

How to write one (with a caveat)

Because every interview is different, a simple framework will serve you well and should be adaptable to each situation:

1. Acknowledge the interviewer’s time: “Thank you for meeting with me on [day]…” or “I appreciate the time you took to meet with me and share insights on…”
2. Reference something specific: bring back one detail from your conversation (a question you discussed, a topic they raised, a challenge they shared)
3. Reaffirm your interest: note why you’re excited about this role and/or company
4. Offer availability: “If you have any further questions or need clarification, I’m happy to help.”
5. Close with action: “I look forward to hearing from you with the next steps…”

Customizing the note to the conversation is key; no two interviews are exactly the same.

Timing and delivery

While handwritten notes are thoughtful, in many situations they can be risky. Cards may be delayed, lost, or never reach remote workers. Email is almost always the safer choice and has become the accepted method.

Ideally, send your note within 24 hours of the interview. The longer you wait, the more the moment fades, and hiring decisions may already be underway.

Don’t just take my word for it.  My colleague Kristen Faust, VP on the recruiting side who has been in the industry for many years says, “A well-timed thank you note is crucial in the job application process.  I think clients appreciate the attentiveness and respect that reaffirms the candidate’s interest.  Be specific, express gratitude clearly, keep it concise and make sure to proofread!”

Closing thoughts

In hiring processes full of high stakes and long odds, it’s easy to fixate on big moves. But sometimes the difference comes from small, human actions. A thoughtfully written thank you that takes just two minutes of your time, can leave a positive impression, reinforce your professionalism, and keep doors open for what’s next.