How to Write a Thank You Email After a Job Interview (With 5 Examples)

Introduction

If you want to make a good impression on the interviewer, you should send a thank you email after a job interview. Doing so can also reinforce your interest in the job.

By reiterating your excitement about the position and the company, you demonstrate that you are genuinely interested in the role and would be committed to working there.

This guide will teach you how to send a thank you email after a job interview. It explores why sending a thank you email is crucial, when and how to send it, what to include, tips for writing an effective email, follow-up strategies, and common mistakes to avoid.

• Introduction
• Why send a thank you email after a job interview?
• When to send a thank you email
• Factors to keep in mind when sending your thank you email
• What to include in a thank you email
• Thank you email vs thank you note
• Tips for writing a thank you email
• How to avoid generic language
• Follow-up strategies
• Common mistakes to avoid
• 5 thank you email examples
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Why send a thank you email after a job interview?

Shows appreciation and professionalism

Sending a thank you email after a job interview expresses appreciation and professionalism because it shows that you are grateful for the opportunity to interview for the position and value the time and effort the interviewer(s) put into the hiring process.

In addition, by sending a thank you email, you show that you are detail-oriented, respectful, and proactive, which can leave a lasting positive impression on the interviewer and potentially increase your chances of getting the job.

Keeps you top of mind with the interviewer

By thanking the interviewer(s) for their time and reiterating your qualifications and enthusiasm for the job, you are keeping your name and qualifications fresh in their mind. Taking the extra step can be particularly important if the interviewer is considering multiple candidates for the position and needs to make a final decision.

Provides an opportunity to reiterate your interest and qualifications

Sending a thank you email is also your chance to highlight any additional qualifications and skills that you may still need to mention during the interview or to address any concerns or questions that may have arisen. Doing so reinforces your fit for the job and demonstrates your interest in and commitment to securing the position.

Addresses concerns or questions that arose during the interview

If you did not answer a question to the best of your ability or are unsure about something discussed during the interview, you can ask for clarification or provide further explanation via the follow-up email. A follow-up email also shows the interviewer that your responses are thoughtful and thorough and can help alleviate any concerns they may have had about your qualifications for the position.

(Read more: How To Use Body Language To Make a Good First Impression )

When to send a thank you email

Timing is important

If you wait too long to send a thank you email, the interviewer may assume that you are less interested in the job than other job seekers who took the time to follow up promptly. Generally, it's best to send a thank you email 24-48 hours after the interview for the following reasons:

• It shows that you are prompt and organised.
• It keeps you fresh in the interviewer's mind.
• It demonstrates your level of interest in the position.

Sending a thank you email on the same day vs the next day vs within a week

Sending an email thanking a job interviewer on the same day shows that you are prompt, attentive, and interested in the position.

Sending an email thanking a job interviewer the next day can still be effective and considered polite. But may have a different impact than sending it on the same day. For example, the interviewer may have already made a decision or may have received multiple thank-you emails by that point.

Sending an email thanking a job interviewer within a week can still be considered polite. However, the interviewer may have already moved on and may no longer remember you as well as they would have if you had sent the email sooner.

Factors to keep in mind when sending your thank you email

Interviewer's schedule

Consider the interviewer's schedule and availability to decide when to send the email. Many who give a thank you note after an interview will do so on the same or the next day. If you know that the company you're applying to has a more extended timeline, you may have more flexibility on when to send the email.

Company culture

Research the company culture and adjust your approach accordingly. Some companies may appreciate a follow-up email on the same day, while others may see it as pushy or too eager.

Interview format

Consider the structure of the interview. For example, if you had a brief phone or video interview, a same-day follow-up email would be appropriate. However, if you had a more extended in-person interview, send the email the next day or within a few days.

Personal preference

If you are the type of person who likes to act quickly, sending an email on the same day may work best for you. However, emailing within a few days may be more convenient if you prefer to take your time.

What to include in a thank you email

Personalised greeting

One way to send a personalised greeting in a thank you email after a job interview is to address your interviewer by name and show your gratitude for the opportunity to interview for the position. You can also mention details from the interview, such as insights into the role or the company culture, that were informative. Then, sign off with a professional and friendly closing, such as Best regards or Sincerely, followed by your name.

Example

Dear [Interviewer's Name],

I hope this email finds you well. Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the [job title] position with [company name]. Talking with you and the team was truly inspiring. It has only further confirmed my interest in joining your organisation.

Thank you for sparing the time to interview with me. Your insights into the role and the company culture were incredibly informative, and I believe I could make a meaningful contribution to the team.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Express gratitude for the opportunity to interview

Thank the interviewer or interviewers for their time and consideration. Say how grateful you are to have had the chance to discuss your qualifications and interest in the position. You may also mention any aspects of the interview that stood out to you, such as the interviewer's questions, the company's mission, or the job responsibilities you found particularly exciting.

Example:

Dear [Interviewer's Name],

I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to interview for the [job title] position with [company name].

The conversation was enlightening and informative and solidified my interest in the position. I was particularly impressed by the company's commitment to [specific aspect of company culture or mission]. I'm excited about contributing to such a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation.

Again, thank you for your consideration and for speaking with me about the position. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Reiterate interest in the position and company

It's important to remember that employers want to hire someone passionate about their work and the company they will be working for. By expressing your continued interest and enthusiasm, you're showing that you are serious about the opportunity and have thought about the position and the company beyond the interview itself.

Example

Dear [Interviewer's Name],

I hope you are doing well and had a great day. Thank you for taking the time to interview me for the [Position Name] at [Company Name]. I appreciate the opportunity to speak with you about my qualifications and learn more about the duties and expectations of the role.

I am particularly impressed with [Company Name] 's mission and values. My skills and experience align well with the company's goals. The opportunity to contribute to your team and work towards advancing the company's objectives is exciting and motivating.

I am grateful for your time and insight and would be honoured to join the team at [Company Name].

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any further questions or concerns. Thank you again for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Highlight key qualifications and skills

When writing a thank you email after a job interview, it is an excellent idea to follow a structure that will help you convey your appreciation and enthusiasm for the job. Highlight your essential qualifications and skills that make you a good fit for the job and provide specific examples from your experience. If there were any questions during the interview that you would have liked to answer differently, take this opportunity to clarify your response and provide additional information.

Example

Dear [Interviewer's Name],

I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for taking the time to meet with me today. Our discussion about the [Job Position] role was enlightening, and I appreciate your insights into the company culture and values.

I am highlighting some of the qualifications and skills that make me a strong candidate for this position. With [Number of Years] years of experience in [Related Field], I have honed my skills in [Key Skill 1], [Key Skill 2], and [Key Skill 3].

In addition, in my previous roles at [Previous Company], I have consistently demonstrated my ability to [Related Accomplishment], which would be a valuable asset to your team. Furthermore, I am highly adaptable and can work in fast-paced environments while maintaining attention to detail.

Thank you again for considering me for this opportunity. I look forward to hearing from you and hope to continue our conversation soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Address any concerns or questions that arose during the interview

Addressing concerns or questions raised during a job interview in a thank you email is important because it shows that you are excited and attentive to the nuances of the position. Second, it acts as a post-interview, allowing you to clarify any points that may have been overlooked or misunderstood.

Example

Subject: Thank You for the Interview

Dear [Interviewer's Name],

I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for meeting with me yesterday to discuss the [job position] at [company name]. Learning more about the role, the company culture, and the team I could join was a pleasure.

I appreciate your time answering my questions and addressing my concerns during the interview. Your responses gave me a better understanding of the company's expectations and the role's responsibilities. In addition, I appreciate your honesty and transparency.

Thank you for further insights into the company's plans and how the [job position] would contribute to achieving those goals. Your enthusiasm for the company's mission is infectious. It has made me even more eager to join the team.

I want to reiterate my interest in the position. I am excited at the prospect of working with such a dynamic team. Please feel free to reach out to me if you require any further information from me or if you have any additional questions.

Thank you again for taking the time to meet with me. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Close with a call to action

Closing a thank you email after a job interview with a call to action is crucial as it denotes how keen you are in being offered the position and your willingness to take the following steps. A well-crafted call to action can also remind the interviewer that action items are still to be taken, such as scheduling the following interview, submitting additional materials, or simply acknowledging receipt of the thank you email.

Example

Subject: Thank You for the Interview - Next Steps

Dear [Interviewer's Name],

Thank you for the opportunity to discuss the [job position] at [company name] with you. I greatly appreciated learning more about the position, the company, and your fantastic team at [company name].

After our conversation, I am excited to join [company name] and contribute my skills and experience to your organisation. My expertise in [specific skills related to the position] would greatly benefit the team. I am eager to explore this opportunity further.

Please let me know if there are any additional materials or information I can provide to support my candidacy. I would also be happy to answer any further questions you may have about my background and experience. I look forward to hearing from you soon regarding next steps.

Once again, thank you for your time and consideration, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Thank you email vs thank you note

Thank you email:

Pros:

• Quick and convenient
• You can send an email instantly anywhere.
• Cost-effective
• You don't have to spend on stationery or postage.
• Easy to personalise
• You can easily customise the content of your email to the recipient.

Cons:

• Less personal
• Emails can be impersonal, mainly if the recipient receives many.
• It can be easily overlooked
• Emails can get lost in the recipient's inbox or spam folder.
• Need more impact
• Emails are less memorable or tangible than handwritten notes.

Thank you note:

Pros:

• More personal
• Handwritten notes are more personal than emails, showing you took the time to write thoughtful messages.
• Creates a lasting impression
• Recipients are more likely to remember handwritten notes than emails.
• Add a personal touch
• You can add a personalised touch using unique stationery or a personal drawing or decoration.

Cons:

• More time-consuming
• Writing and sending a handwritten note takes more time and effort than sending an email.
• Can be costly
• You may need to spend money on stationery and postage.
• It may only be appropriate for some situations.
• A handwritten note may only be necessary or appropriate for some business situations or relationships.

When to send a thank you note instead of an email

A handwritten thank-you note can be appropriate when you want to make a personal and lasting impression after a job interview. It can be especially effective when you want to stand out from other candidates. Some cases when you should consider sending a thank you note instead of an email after a job interview include:

Tips for writing a thank you email

Start with a concise subject line

Use a subject line that indicates that you're sending a thank-you email after your interview. A clear subject line makes it easier for the employer to identify and prioritise your email.

Address the person

Address the interviewer personally, using their name, surname, and title. This shows that you remember and appreciate their time.

Express your gratitude

Start the email by thanking the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to speak with them about the position and the company. Then, be specific about what impressed you during the interview.

Recap the key points

In the body of the email, summarise some of the critical issues of the interview, reiterating your interest in the position and why you think you would be a good fit for the company.

Proofread

Proofread your email carefully before sending it to ensure it is error-free and conveys a professional tone.

(Read more: Slow Down and Write Better Emails )

How to avoid generic language

When writing a thank you email after a job interview, it is essential to avoid generic language to make an impact on the employer. To achieve this, start by addressing the interviewer by name and thanking them for meeting with you, and highlighting specific aspects of the interview, such as a point made by the interviewer, the company's mission, or a conversation topic that resonated with you.

Remembering shows you were actively engaged during the interview, not just going through the motions. Additionally, express your enthusiasm for the job and the company and highlight why you would be an excellent fit for the role. Finally, personalise the email by adding a unique touch, such as a reference to something you discussed during the interview or a hobby or interest that aligns with the company culture.

Some examples of generic language to avoid when writing a thank you email after a job interview include:

• Thank you for your time
• I appreciate the opportunity
• I enjoyed meeting with you
• Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions
• I look forward to hearing from you soon

(Read more: Ultimate Job Interview Tips: How to Convince Employers You're Right for the Job )

Follow-up strategies

When to follow up after sending a thank you email

The follow-up objective is to reiterate your interest and remind the employer of your candidacy, not to pressure them into a decision. It's important to note that the timeline for follow-up can vary based on the circumstances of the interview and the company's hiring process.

In most cases, following up within a week or two after sending a thank you email is reasonable if you have not heard back from the employer. Remain polite, professional, and respectful in your follow-up communication, and avoid being pushy or demanding.

How to follow up without being pushy

Following up after a job interview is essential to express your continued interest in the position and to stand out among other candidates. You can also ask if the interviewer has any updates on the hiring process or if they need any further information from you.

What to do if you don't hear back

If you do not hear back after following up, send a second follow-up email or phone call. However, if there is still no response, it is best to move on and assume that the position has been filled or that the company has decided to pursue other candidates.

Remember to stay positive and continue applying for different jobs to increase your chances of finding the right opportunity.

(Read more: 10 Best Strategies for Job Hunting (Plus Tips for Success! )

Common mistakes to avoid

Sending a generic email

Avoid sending a generic thank you email to every interviewer you meet. Instead, personalise each email by mentioning specific things you discussed or learnt during the interview.

Focusing too much on yourself rather than the company

Make the email about yourself, and emphasise how you can add value to the company and why you would fit the role well.

Being too informal or casual

Even if the interview went well and you felt comfortable with the interviewer, remember that a thank you email is still professional communication. Avoid using slang, emojis, or overly informal language.

Forgetting to proofread

Before sending the email, proofread it carefully to avoid spelling or grammatical errors. A poorly written email can leave a negative impression on your communication skills.

Neglecting to follow up

While a thank you email is an essential step after an interview, it is not the end of the process. If you are still waiting for the interviewer's reply within a week or two, send a follow-up email to enquire about the status of the position.

5 thank you email examples

Traditional thank you email

Characteristics:

⁠When to use

It's always good to send a traditional thank you email after a job interview to show appreciation to the interviewer for their time and consideration. It can also help you stand out among other candidates and leave a positive impression. Moreover, sending a thank you email lets you reaffirm your interest in the position and emphasise any strengths or qualifications you discussed during the interview.⁠

Example:
⁠
⁠Dear [Interviewer's Name],

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me during the interview yesterday. Learning more about the company and the open position was a pleasure. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you.

I am reiterating my interest in the position and highlighting my enthusiasm for the company's mission and values. My skills and experience align well with the requirements of the role, and I would be honoured to be part of the team.

Please don't hesitate to reach out if there is any additional information I can provide or any questions I can answer.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Short thank you email

Characteristics:

• Concise
• Grateful
• Polite
• Personalised

When to use

A short thank you email after a job interview is appropriate when you want to quickly follow up with the interviewer after the interview and express your appreciation for their time. In addition, you can use it when you have limited time or are struggling to create additional content for a longer email.

They can also be helpful if you send a thank you email to multiple interviewers or if you are applying for various positions and want to send a shorter email to each interviewer.

Example:

Dear [Interviewer's Name]

Thank you so much for taking the time to interview me for the [Job Title] position this morning. I appreciate the opportunity to learn more about the role and your company.

I am grateful for your thoughtful questions and insights into the position. My skills and experience align well with the requirements, and I can contribute positively to the team.

Thank you again for considering me for the role.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Follow-up thank you email

Characteristics

• Brief
• Personal
• Professional
• Timely
• Grateful

Example

Dear [Interviewer's Name],

Thank you for meeting with me today to discuss the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. It was great to learn more about the company culture, the expectations of the role, and the opportunities that may arise in the future.

I was especially intrigued to learn more about your team's approach to project management, and I remain excited about the prospect of joining your team. My skills in [specific skill] and experience in [specific experience] make me a strong candidate for this role. I am eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to your team.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or need additional information. Again, thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Thank you email for a group interview

Characteristics

• Personalised
• Prompt
• Appreciative
• Concise
• Inquisitive

When to use

Use a thank you email after a group interview, as it shows your appreciation for the time and effort taken by the interviewers in the hiring process. It can also help you stand out from other candidates by displaying your interest and enthusiasm for the job. In addition, by expressing your gratitude and highlighting the important aspects of the interview, you can reinforce your enthusiasm and interest in the position.

Example:

Subject: Thank You for the Group Interview

Dear [Interviewer's Name],

Thank you for organising the group interview for the [Job Title] position with [Company Name]. It was a great experience to meet you and your team and learn more about the company and the job.

I was impressed by the professionalism and friendliness of everyone I met during the interview. I felt comfortable and valued throughout the process and learnt much from your insightful questions and feedback. My skills and qualities align with the company's values and needs. I am excited about joining your team.

Once again, thank you for your time, consideration, and hospitality. Please let me know if there is anything else I can provide or if you need any further information. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

(Read more: Best Tips on How to Win a Phone Interview )

Thank you email with additional information

Characteristics

• Gratitude
• Personalisation
• Conciseness
• Relevance
• Timeliness

When to use

Sending a thank-you email after an interview is always good practise to show appreciation for the interviewer's time and reiterate your enthusiasm for the position. In addition, a thank you email with additional information is an excellent way to follow up after an interview. You can use it in scenarios such as:

• If the interviewer asks for additional information during the interview.
• Remembering something important, you should have mentioned during the interview.

Example:

Subject: Thank You for Interviewing Me and Additional Information

Dear [Interviewer's Name],

Thank you for considering me for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I appreciate learning more about the company and the role during the interview.

I wanted to share additional information relevant to the position and the company. As discussed during the interview, I am very experienced in [Skill/Experience related to the job].

Additionally, I have some ideas about topics related to the job] that could interest the company. For example, in my previous role at [Previous Company Name], I was able to [Accomplishment related to the job] by implementing [Strategy/Technique about the topic].

This could apply to the work at [Company Name], and I would be eager to discuss this further.

Please let me know if you have any questions or want further information. Thank you again for the opportunity to interview and learn more about [Company Name] and the position of [Job Title].

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Conclusion

Sending a thank-you email after a job interview is a small gesture that can significantly impact your chances of landing the job. Don't overlook the importance of sending a thank-you email, and make it a regular part of your job search process. With this simple but powerful tool in your arsenal, you can take your job search to the next level and achieve your career goals.

(Read more: How to Get Your Ideal Job: 8 Practical Tips You Can Easily Follow )

FAQs

1. What if I need the interviewer's email address?
   ⁠⁠You can check the company's website for a general HR or recruitment team email address. Alternatively, you can message the interviewer through LinkedIn or the platform they used to contact you for the interview. Thank them for their time and express your willingness to provide additional information.
   ⁠
2. Can I send a thank you email to multiple interviewers?
   ⁠⁠Yes, sending a thank you email to multiple interviewers after an interview is appropriate. In addition, it is a good idea to email each person you interviewed, thanking them for their time and expressing your interest in the position. Remember that each email should be personalised and specific to the interviewer and their contributions to the interview.
   ⁠
3. Should I send a thank you email if I didn't feel the interview went well?
   ⁠⁠Yes, sending a thank-you email after an interview is still appropriate, even if you didn't feel it went well. A thank you email shows that you appreciate the interviewer's time and consideration, regardless of how you thought about the interview. Keep the email polite and brief, thanking the interviewer for their time and expressing your continued interest in the position.
   ⁠
4. How long should my thank you email be?
   ⁠⁠A thank you email to an interviewer should be sent since the length may vary depending on the situation and the content. However, a thank you email should be concise and to the point, preferably one or two short paragraphs.

#SEEKBetter work now and land that dream job! Update your profile at JobStreet and find the job that aligns with your passion and purpose. Download the JobStreet app on Google Play or App Store. For more expert tips and advice on workplace culture, check out our Career Advice.