The Thank You Email Formula That Keeps You Top of Mind

You’ve just walked out of an interview that you think went well. You’re pumped but also nervous. Now the waiting game begins, and the dreaded thought creeps in: "What if they forget about me?" You’re not alone in this—the post-interview lull can feel like an eternity. But what if I told you there's a way to keep yourself top of mind without feeling like you're pestering the interviewer?

The Problem Everyone Ignores

We've all heard it before: send a thank you email. But how often have you wondered if it even makes a difference? The truth is, you're not the only one feeling like your application is just another file in a stack of resumes. In fact, 70% of hiring managers say they appreciate a thank you email after an interview (Jobvite, 2024). Yet, many job seekers struggle to find the right tone and content, fearing they’ll come off as insincere. "Why do I even bother sending thank you emails if it feels like they never matter?" you might ask. The problem isn't with the gesture itself, but how it’s executed.

Why The typical approach Doesn't Work

Most candidates send a generic "Thank you for your time" email, thinking they’ve checked off a box. But here’s an insider tip: generic doesn’t get remembered. We tend to rely on overly formal language that’s devoid of personality or strategic content. "I want to send a thank you email, but I'm terrified it will just be another thing to annoy the interviewer," is a common worry.

The real issue is that these emails fail to highlight your fit for the role or reinforce key points discussed during the interview. They’re polite but forgettable, and in today’s competitive job market, forgettable isn’t an option.

The 3 Things That Actually Work

Good news: there’s a formula that turns your thank you email from a nicety into a strategic follow-up. Let’s dive into the three-step process.

Step 1: Express Genuine Gratitude

Start your email by sincerely thanking the interviewer for their time, but go beyond the standard phrasing. Mention something specific from your conversation to show you were engaged.

Example:

"Hi the interviewer,

I wanted to extend my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to discuss the the position position with you today. I really enjoyed our conversation, especially your insights on the team’s upcoming projects."

This demonstrates that you’re not just sending a templated message; you paid attention and valued their insights.

Step 2: Reinforce Your Fit

Now, tie in a key point from the interview that highlights why you’re a great fit for the role. This is your chance to remind them of your skills that align perfectly with their needs.

Example:

"During our discussion, you mentioned the importance of a relevant skill. I was excited to hear this, as I’ve had success in briefly mention your relevant experience, which I believe would be beneficial to your team."

By doing this, you subtly remind the interviewer how you can contribute to their success, strengthening your case as the ideal candidate.

Step 3: Add a Personal Touch

Close your email on a personal note. Mention something that came up during your conversation that adds a human element, making you more memorable.

Example:

"I also enjoyed learning about your interest in [personal topic discussed, like a shared hobby or interest]. It’s rare to find someone who also a brief example. I’m looking forward to potentially working together!"

This not only leaves a warm impression but also reinforces a connection beyond professional qualifications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While crafting your thank you email, steer clear of these common pitfalls:

• Being Too Formal: Overly stiff language can come off as insincere. Aim for professional yet conversational.
• Rehashing Your Resume: The thank you email isn’t another opportunity to dump your qualifications. Instead, focus on one or two key points that align with the role.
• Waiting Too Long: Timing is crucial. Send your thank you email within 24 hours while the interview is still fresh in the interviewer's mind.

Your Next Step

By following this formula, you transform your thank you email from a perfunctory afterthought into a powerful part of your job search strategy. It’s not just about saying thank you; it’s about reinforcing why you’re the best fit for the role and keeping yourself top of mind.

Ready to make your next thank you email truly impactful? Our interview coach can help you refine your skills and craft emails that leave a lasting impression in minutes.

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Part of our interview series for job seekers.