Standing Out in the Inbox

 

A thank-you email gives you the opportunity to be remembered and positively influence the employer’s opinion of you, post-interview. The mere act of taking the time to send a considered follow-up represents you as someone who is proactive, diligent and enthusiastic about the role - traits highly sought in a new hire. It ties up the interaction in a positive light, leaving the employer with fresh memories of your attributes.

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Crafting the Perfect Post-Interview Thank-You Email

 

The perfect thank-you email is not a one-size-fits-all template you copy-paste. It should be personalised and detailed, reflecting the specificities of the interview and the people you interacted with. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to construct yours:

 

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The Opening

 

Begin with a warm and genuine expression of gratitude for the opportunity to interview. Mention something unique about the interview or the company that resonated with you. This shows attentiveness and enthusiasm.

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The Body

 

In the body of your email, reiterate your interest in the position and excitement about the potential opportunity. Highlight a key point or two that came up during the interview, and elaborate on how your skills and experience align with the company's needs. Be specific, but avoid repetition from your CV and the interview.

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The Closing

 

Close with a strong, actionable statement. Rather than a passive “I look forward to hearing from you”, offer to provide additional information or references if required. Always conclude with a respectful sign-off and your full name.

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The Dos and Don'ts of Sending a Thank-You Email

 

The Dos

 

• Be Prompt: Send your thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview. It keeps you fresh in the interviewer's mind and conveys a sense of efficiency.

• Be Personal: Tailor your email to each individual you spoke with. Personalise it with specific details from your conversation.

• Be Professional: Double-check for typos and grammatical errors. It’s also another chance to express that you are meticulous and detail-oriented.

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The Don'ts

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• Don’t be Generic: Avoid generic thank-yous that could apply to anyone. Specificity highlights your interest and engagement during the interview process.

• Don’t Vent Frustrations: If you had a negative interview experience, now is not the time to address it. Keep your email positive and forward-looking.

• Don’t Overdo it: Your thank-you email should be relatively brief. Don't rehash your entire CV or start negotiating terms.

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In Summary

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Employers want to hire individuals who are diligent, poised, and genuinely interested in joining their team. Your post-interview thank-you email is a golden chance to showcase these attributes and make a lasting impression. Remember, your thank-you email is not just a formality; it’s an opportunity to differentiate yourself from other candidates. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your thank-you email is thoughtful, timely, and a true reflection of you as a professional.

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