Chances are you’ll experience your first interview during your high school years, either for a summer job, internship, college application, scholarship, or something else. Making a lasting impression is important to your success! Creating a flawless resume, crafting the perfect cover letter, knocking the interview out of the park, and writing a thank you email after an interview are great ways to get noticed.
Why You Should Send a Note Following Your Interview
Making a lasting impression goes beyond the interview. Demonstrating your communications skills, gratitude, and interest is important during the hiring or awarding process. Individuals are taking time out of their busy schedules to get to know you AND several other applicants to find the best fit. Sending a note is a meaningful way to keep them thinking about you and may help you in the long run!
What Should You Say in the Thank You Email
Although there is no right answer as to what you should say in a thank you email after an interview, there are couple of general topics you should touch on:
- Thank the interviewer for their time; it’s a valuable commodity! Address them by name, if you can, so it’s personalized and thoughtful.
- Include specific details about the job, internship, or scholarship you are applying for that you learned from your conversation to show that you were actively listening.
- Include a phrase letting them know you are available to answer any additional questions if needed.
- Provide your contact information again so that there are multiple lines of communication open between you and them.
Bonus tip: Keep it brief! The follow-up email is a great way to show that you are still interested, but not the right place to continue providing details about yourself — unless you were asked to do so during the interview.
Sample Thank You Email
So, are you ready to tackle your own thank you email? Use this template as a starting point and be sure to make it your own.
Subject line: Thank you for the interview opportunity
Hi John,
I wanted to thank you again for your time today and the opportunity to interview for the movie clerk position at AMC. It was a pleasure to meet you and learn more about the team and the role. I really valued our discussion on ways team members can make the movie-going experience exceptional.
If you need any further information or have any additional questions, please feel free to reach out to me. I look forward to the possibility of working with you and contributing to the success of your team.
Best regards,
Jane Doe
(555) 555-5555
jane.doe@email.com
How Soon Should I Send a Thank You Email After an Interview
Ideally you should send a thank you email the same day or the next, following your interview. This keeps things timely especially if they are moving quickly in the decision process. It also allows them time to reach out to you if they need any further information quickly. Don’t be alarmed if they don’t respond to your email; they are likely busy but appreciate seeing a follow-up.
Now go make some great first impressions, and good luck with your journey ahead!
