Sending a thank you email after an interview is a bit of a lost art these days. With most job hunters sending hundreds of applications for a role, they may not even have the time.
However, it’s a strategic move that can set you apart from other candidates. Studies show that 80% of hiring managers say thank-you notes help them evaluate candidates – but only 24% of applicants send them. This simple follow-up reinforces your interest and keeps you top of mind during the decision process.
So how do you do it properly? Follow along as we show you how to give the perfect follow up email after an interview.
Why Send a Thank You Email?
Reinforces Your Fit
A follow up reminds interviewers why you’re the best candidate by highlighting key discussion points. It shows that you digested the pain points they’re experiencing and can solve them in written form.
It also allows you to address any unanswered questions or skills you forgot to mention.
Shows Professionalism
Ghosting has become a problem in the hiring process for many – both for applicants and hiring companies. A thank you shows professionalism and commitment to seeing the role through.
Keeps You Memorable
Recruiters interview multiple people – generally 4-6 per role, and they may be hiring for more than one role. Your note helps them recall your conversation and what you talked about.
How to Structure Your Thank You Email
Subject Line
Starting with the subject line, the advice is easy – keep it simple.
- “Thank You for the [Job Title] Interview – [Your Name]”
- “Following Up on Our [Company] Conversation”
Add the job title in the subject if you can. It will make it easy to search in their inbox and connect you with the role.
Opening (1-2 sentences)
Start with kind words, something to show you appreciated the opportunity and took to heart what you talked about.
For example:
“Dear [Interviewer],
Thank you for taking the time to discuss the [Job Title] role yesterday. I enjoyed learning about [specific topic] and am even more excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company].”
This gives you an easy launching point for the rest of the email.
Body (3-4 sentences)
This is where you show you heard what they’re looking for. Reference a specific feature of the job – “Your focus on [project] resonated with me…” – to show your enthusiasm and skill fit.
Use this also as a chance to highlight a relevant skill or experience you didn’t fully cover.
Example:
“I wanted to share how my experience leading [project] at [Company] aligns with your team’s goals. We increased [metric] by 30%, and I’d love to bring this expertise to [Company].”
Closing (1 sentence)
The key here is to reaffirm interest and hopefully lead to next steps.
“I’m eager to contribute to [specific goal] and look forward to next steps. Please let me know if you need additional information.”
It’s not a difficult thing to do, but it can be time-consuming if you’re still applying for roles or interviewing elsewhere.
Post-Interview Thank You Email Template
Putting it all together, this is a good look at what you’re aiming for:
Subject: Thank You – [Your Name] Interview for [Job Title]
Body:
Dear [Interviewer],
Thank you again for discussing the [Job Title] role at [Company]. I enjoyed learning about [specific topic] and how the team is tackling [challenge/goal].
Our conversation about [topic] reminded me of when I [achievement] at [Previous Job], where I [specific action] to deliver [result]. I’m confident this experience would benefit [Company] as you [goal].
I’m excited about the opportunity and look forward to hearing next steps. Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Contact Info]
Key Takeaways
- Send within 24 hours – Ideal timing keeps you fresh in their memory.
- Keep it concise – Aim for 100-200 words (like the example above).
- Proofread – Typos undermine professionalism. Use tools like Grammarly if you have any doubts.
- Attach your portfolio – If relevant, include a link to your work samples.
Despite its simplicity, these emails take time to do correctly. If you need help, try Hello I today to get help with your thank you emails as well as personalized resumes, help finding jobs that are the right fit for you, and plenty more.
