Leave a lasting positive impression
Hopefully, you’re reading this because you just left an interview, crushed it, and now want to take that extra step to stand out as a top candidate. Great news: following up is a powerful yet often overlooked way to strengthen your impression and reinforce your enthusiasm for the role.
Despite what some may think, thank-you notes are not a thing of the past. In my years as a recruiter and HR professional, I can tell you that many candidates skip this step entirely, and that’s a missed opportunity. A thoughtful follow-up demonstrates professionalism, engagement, and a genuine interest in the role.
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How to politely follow up after an interview
Every time I received a thank you note, I genuinely appreciated it. I thought that it:
- left a very favorable impression
- shows professionalism and engagement
- builds connection and rapport
You can continue reading along or watch the video below instead.
Follow up that leaves a lasting positive impression
During my time as a recruiter, I interviewed hundreds of candidates. While I remember certain names and faces, only a few truly stood out. On our rating scale of 5, a candidate named Kyle received 5’s across the board – the highest affirmation that he was a rockstar. He was engaged, prepared, and made an impact during the conversation. What really solidified his spot as a standout applicant was his follow-up.
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As the hiring team gathered to discuss placements, each interviewer walked in with the same envelope. Kyle had sent a handwritten thank-you note to every member of the panel. Each card contained a unique message referencing specific moments from their conversation. That level of thoughtfulness left a lasting mark.
So what made Kyle’s action so special?
Kyle wasn’t the first to send a thank you card, he was definitely one of the few (out of hundreds) of candidates. While email is perfectly acceptable (and often the fastest way to follow up), a mailed note adds a personal touch. Think about it—emails get buried in inboxes, but a handwritten note sits on a desk, serving as a tangible reminder of your enthusiasm and professionalism.
In this world of remote work, if you know the interview panel doesn’t go into the office, then absolutely send the email instead. Email is just as great! But if you know they are on-site, it’s super simple to figure out the office location – you may have even entered it into your GPS when you interviewed.
Write a memorable thank-you note after an interview
Following up shouldn’t feel like a daunting task. With a little preparation, you can make it part of your interview routine. Here are some simple ways to streamline the process:
1. Keep thank-you cards on hand. Pick up a pack from Target or TJ Maxx. You can easily find stylish sets for under $10. Here’s a set of thank you cards from Amazon* that is gender neutral and appropriate for any role and industry. *note this is an affiliate link which means I may earn a small % of commission at no cost to you!
2. Write your notes while the conversation is fresh. If possible, stop at a nearby café after the interview and jot down a few sentences before mailing the card.
3. For email, be timely. Send your message within 24 hours to keep the momentum going. A small effort like this can set you apart from other candidates who don’t take the time to follow up.
What do you say in a thank-you note after an interview?
Your thank-you note doesn’t need to be lengthy. Space is limited so be sure to include 3-5 key sentences to express appreciation and reinforce your interest. Here’s a simple structure:
1. Start with gratitude. Thank the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to learn more about the role.
2. Reiterate your interest and enthusiasm. Highlight what excites you most about the company or position.
3. End with a confident statement. Reassure them that you know you can immediately contribute to this role. Express your eagerness for next steps and appreciation for their consideration.
4. Sign your name.
5. Add a P.S. to reference a specific moment. An easy way to include something you talked about off subject. Share something memorable or personal from your conversation.
Example:
Dear ,
Thank you very much for meeting with me to explore the Project Manager role at HBO. I am impressed at how closely each department works together and am excited at the prospect of working on projects that reach millions of fans. After speaking to the team, I know this would be an excellent cultural match and I hope to hear about next steps.
Best,
Emily
P.S. – I can’t wait to try Blue Bird Coffee – thanks for the local recommendation!
Why a simple gesture can make a big impact
Following up after an interview isn’t just about saying thank you. It’s about reinforcing your value and leaving a strong, final impression. Whether it’s a well-crafted email or a handwritten note, taking the time to follow up thoughtfully can help tip the scales in your favor.
While Kyle already received an offer before the team received the cards, it made hiring managers ‘fight’ for him to be on their teams. I’ve also seen it help push candidates that were ‘on the hiring fence’.
Even if you don’t get the job, your professionalism and effort won’t go unnoticed. Hiring managers remember candidates who leave a positive impact, and those connections may lead to future opportunities.
So, if you’re wondering whether it’s worth the effort, trust me, it is. Take that extra step and stand out from the rest of the candidates!
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