Interview Tip No. 1: Send thank-you notes

• By Susan Ricker 

Those few moments after an interview ends can be a rush of emotions and thoughts. “Nailed it! Glad I brought in my portfolio. How crazy that I went to the same school as that manager! Why did I tell that corny joke?” But among the whirlwind of thoughts, be sure to remember one thing:
58 percent of employers say it’s important to send a thank-you note after an interview. 24 percent say it’s very important.
If almost two thirds of employers expect this final step in the interview process, you definitely don’t want to pass on this last opportunity to shine. Keep these tips in mind when it comes to thank-you notes:

• Recap the highlights of the interview. In your note, thank the interviewer for their time, mention a specific part of the job or interview you connected with, reiterate your interest in the position and close with, “I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks,” and sign your name, including your contact information again.
• Don’t wait more than 24 hours to send your thanks. While a card and envelope may be more elegant than email, it’s important to send a timely message while you’re still fresh in their mind and before they make their decision.
• Thank-you notes are a good idea for other work occasions, too. If a mentor takes you out to lunch, you connect with somebody at a networking event or a friend helps you with your résumé, the gesture will be appreciated.