The Impact of a Handwritten Thank You Note After an Interview
In-person job interviews typically last between 45 and 90 minutes, during which candidates discuss their work history and learn more about the position they are applying for. After the interview is over, most job seekers will follow up with a thank you email within 24 to 48 hours, which is a standard professional courtesy. However, career experts suggest going one step further to really stand out from the crowd—sending a handwritten thank you note.
According to Vicki Salemi, a career expert at Monster, “Hardly anyone does that ever,” but doing so can leave a lasting impression on interviewers and potentially help a candidate land the job.
Why a Handwritten Thank You Note Can Make a Difference
While thank you emails are appreciated by most interviewers, handwritten notes are far less common and can make a strong impact. A physical thank you note shows that a candidate is willing to put in that extra effort—a small gesture that signals professionalism and genuine interest in the role.
Career coach Angelina Darrisaw, who has worked with Viacom and is the CEO of C-Suite Coach, emphasizes that sending a handwritten note can make a candidate stand out. “It can signal that you are willing to go the extra mile, which can be very attractive to potential employers.” This small, thoughtful gesture could make a difference when interviewers are comparing candidates.
Salemi reflects on the personal effect these notes had during her time as a recruiter. “As we were determining who was going to get the job offer, I had that thank you note on my desk for at least a week,” she recalls. “And I always thought of that person.” The physical presence of a handwritten note serves as a constant reminder of the candidate’s gratitude and excitement for the role, keeping them top of mind throughout the decision-making process.
The Simplicity of a Handwritten Thank You
The best part about sending a handwritten thank you note is that it doesn’t need to be elaborate or expensive. According to Salemi, you can easily purchase boxes of note cards that simply say “thank you.” These cards don’t need to be flashy or filled with lengthy prose—just a few thoughtful words that express gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity can go a long way.
To make sure you’re sending your note to the right address, you can ask for the interviewer’s business card or check their email signature for a physical address. If that’s not available, you can also find the company’s address on their website and send the note to the appropriate department.
When writing the note, keep it short and sweet. Here are some key points to include:
- Express gratitude: Thank the interviewer for the opportunity to meet with them.
- Show enthusiasm: Mention that you are excited about the role and the company.
- Reference something specific from the interview: Personalize the note by mentioning a topic or conversation point that stood out during the interview.
Always double-check your writing for any grammatical or spelling errors before sealing the envelope. A clean, professional note will reflect well on your attention to detail.
Timing Matters: Send the Note Right After the Interview
Timing is crucial when it comes to sending a handwritten thank you note. Salemi recommends writing the note immediately after the interview—ideally while still in the building or at a nearby coffee shop. The sooner the note is written and mailed, the better.
“It’s a nice touch because then a few days later, the interviewers are busy with their normal work lives and they get this on their desk,” says Salemi. The note will catch their attention during a busy time and will serve as a reminder of the candidate’s professionalism and interest in the position.
By taking this extra step, candidates ensure that they are fresh in the interviewer’s mind when it comes time to make a decision about who to hire.
Conclusion: A Small Gesture with Big Impact
While sending a thank you email is a common courtesy, a handwritten note shows an additional level of effort that can set you apart from the competition. It not only demonstrates gratitude but also highlights your enthusiasm for the role and the company. In a competitive job market, this simple yet thoughtful gesture could make a big difference when interviewers are deciding between candidates.
By sending a handwritten thank you note, job seekers have the opportunity to stand out and leave a lasting impression, ensuring that they remain top of mind when the final hiring decision is made.
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