When you were little you were taught to always say “please and thank you.” Well, it’s no different now. Especially in today’s competitive job market, a “thank you” note can go a long way. As smart and savvy collegiettes, you probably already knew this. But when should you send a thank you note? And how?
Keep reading to learn about the dos of sending a thank you note. Because two simple words can mean the difference between you scoring your dream internship – or not!
1. Letter of Recommendation
Why: You are asking someone to take time out of his or her busy day to write something nice about you. They aren’t necessarily gaining anything from it. This favor they are completing is simply for you and for your benefit.
When: There are two points at which you need to say thank you. The first is when you ask them to write you the letter of recommendation. The second is when they complete the letter of recommendation.
How: When you ask them to write you the letter, make sure you express your gratitude for their consideration. (They aren’t obligated to write it just because you ask!) Say something like, “Thank you for your time and consideration.” After they write the letter of recommendation make sure you send them a thank you note. Again, thank them for their time and for being willing to talk positivity about you. Preferably this would be handwritten but an email is better than nothing! Bonus: Follow up with them if you get the job or if you are accepted into whatever it is that you applied for.
2. Interview
Why: They’re considering you for a job that you want. They are talking time to learn about you. They are willing to listen to you and get to know you. They could have just as easily tossed your resume into the trash. Plus, it shows that you’re on your toes and you really care about the opportunity.
When: Shortly after you interview. Don’t wait too long after your interview to send a thank you note. Whether your interview was in person or over the phone, send a thank you note no more than five hours afterwards. Don’t send one the minute you leave or hang up (that’s a little obnoxious), but don’t wait too long, either. About an hour or two afterwards is a good amount of time.
How: “Thank you so much for taking time to chat with me today about [the opportunity].” That’s your opening line Then go on and describe a few things you talked about. If you were really excited about a specific aspect of the job that you discussed in the interview, then say it! For example: “I loved hearing more about [Company X]’s internship incentive program. I think that’s a great way for interns to get involved with [Company X]. Thank you for teaching me more about the program and laying out all of the steps.”
3. Job Offer
Why: Well, for starters, you just got the job. Congrats! Now go thank the people that made it happen.
When: As soon as you accept. You will receive a phone call or an email confirming the offer. Then you will call or email to accept the offer. If you email, include a thank you note at the end of your message. If you call to accept the offer, say thank you over phone but also shoot them an email shortly afterwards.
How: Express how excited you are to start working! Thank them for taking time to learn more about you and for seeing the potential in you through your application.
4. After a Job or Internship
Why: Leave on a good note (literally). Hopefully you’ve learned a lot from this internship. You at least have your manager to thank, if not more people. Whoever helped you grow or whoever made a lasting impact on your experience, that is who you should thank.
When: The day you leave.
How: These should definitely be handwritten. If you had a remote internship, then an email might be okay. However, handwritten notes leave a positive impression and end up being perceived as more meaningful. In your note, say how much you loved the job. If you didn’t love the job, try to find the best aspects. You don’t want to be fake, but you want to come off as polite and appreciative. The more personal details you have in this thank you note, the better. It will prove that you really care and that you were paying attention throughout the duration of your job. This thank you note is a great way to seal the deal on a professional relationship.