As Thanksgiving Day approaches, it’s a good time to be reminded of the importance of a sending a thank you note.  Although many job seekers overlook this step, most employers agree that a thank you note makes a lasting impression following a job interview.

Here are some tips for writing a thank you note:
Do it First:   While the interview is still fresh in your mind, it’s a great time to draft your thank you note. After you leave the interview take a few minutes to jot down your thoughts and impressions of the meeting, then begin writing your note.  Be sure to send the thank you within 24 hours of the interview.

Make it Personal:   No one wants to feel like they just received a generic thank you note.   Be sure to take the time to personalize the note to the person(s) that you met, reference the company name and also briefly emphasize whatever you feel was the best part of the meeting.

Be Sincere:  Remember, a thank you note is one more chance that you have to leave a good impression with the employer.  Make sure you let them know that you appreciated their time and look forward to hearing back from them.  Most importantly, remind the employer that you are a good fit for both the position and the company.

Speed up the Delivery:  There are several ways to deliver your thank you note.  Although email may be fastest method, sometimes an email can be held up in a spam folder or overlooked in a crowded in-box.  However, if the employer is planning to make a quick hiring decision, a properly delivered email note will likely grab their attention.   A “snail mail” note, on the other hand, shows off both thoroughness and a good sense of business etiquette.  For a personal touch, be sure to hand write the note you mail.  These small details can make a big difference.   Employers appreciate that you’ve taken the extra time to actually write out and mail the note.

Rose Miglino is the Career Specialist at the St. Petersburg/Gibbs Campus.