Writing Thank You Letters

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Thank you letters are essential in the job search process, whether it comes after an interview or a chance networking encounter.  It is an excellent way to market yourself to obtain an offer and stand out from those that do not follow up.

Thank You Note Tips:

  • Send a thank you note in 24 hours or less after your interview
  • Make the note specific and highlight 2-3 things you enjoyed from your conversation
  • Reaffirm your interest in the position
  • Do not write more than 1-2 short paragraphs
  • Thank you notes can be sent via email or handwritten; handwritten is more personal
  • If sent via email, end with a professional email signature that includes your full name, major, graduation year, email, phone number and LinkedIn link
  • If you were interviewed by more than one person, thank each interviewer individually being sure to mention something specific from each conversation

Sample Email Thank You Note:

To: Andrew Myers (andrew@edelman.com)
From: Maria Washington (maria.washington@emory.edu)
Date: 2/23/2019
Subject: Follow up on Edelman InterviewDear Mr. Myers,It was a pleasure meeting you today to discuss the PR Brand internship at Edelman. Our meeting further confirmed to me the position is a perfect match for my passion for public relations and interest in working directly with clients. I enjoyed sharing more information about my previous work at the Emory Wheel and believe this has given me a good foundation in the basics of media in which to build upon at Edelman.I also particularly enjoyed hearing more about your work with eBay and how you continue to cultivate that relationship. I am very interested in joining the Edelman culture, and I look forward to hearing from you about the position. Thank you for taking the time to interview me today.

Sincerely,

Maria Washington

Media Studies
Emory University, May 2020
(404) 555-2938
maria.washington@emory.edu