This document provides 8 things not to do when writing a thank you note after a job interview. These include waiting more than 24 hours to send the note, sending it while still at the interview, using non-email methods to send it, being too generic or personal, writing more than two paragraphs, and not having someone proofread for errors. Sending a prompt, tailored, concise thank you note by email is recommended.

1. 8 Interview
Thank-You Note
No-No’s

2. Sending a post-interview
thank-you note can give
you a competitive edge.

3. But doing it
wrong is worse
than not doing
it at all!

4. Here are 8 things
NOT to do when writing
a thank-you note.

5. 1. Wait longer than 24 hours to
email the thank-you note.

6. Prompt emails mean you are interested and efficient.

7. 2. Send the thank-you note while you
are still at the interview.

8. Take some time to review and reflect.

9. 3. Fax, text or snail mail the thank-you note.

10. Use the right technology.

11. 4. Use a Mr./Ms. as the salutation.

12. You are an adult and so are they; use their first name.

13. 5. Be too generic.

14. Reference particular points made in the interview or
address any specific concerns that arose.

15. 6. Be too personal.

16. No matter how well you “clicked” with the interviewer, this is a
professional relationship and you are still selling yourself as an employee.

17. 7. Write more than two paragraphs.

18. The average attention span is 8 seconds.
Grab their attention, answer their questions and do it quickly.

19. 8. Forget to have someone else
proofread your note.

20. Errors in grammar, spelling or vocabulary
could cost you the job.

21. Looking for help in your job
search? Contact the recruiters
at Smith Hanley Associates.

22. Paul Chatlos 203-319-4300
Nancy Darian 312-629-2400
www.smithhanley.com