When to Say Thank You During Your Job Search
Posted November 25, 2013 & filed under Interviewing, Job Search
On Thanksgiving, when you’re gathered around the dinner table with family and friends, it’s traditional to take a moment before you chow down on the scrumptious food to say thank you. Saying thank you for the good fortune you’ve received shouldn’t be limited to that brief window during the holiday season. All throughout your job search and interview process there are opportunities to say thank you, so take them and improve your chances of getting a bountiful job this holiday season.
Before the Interview
• Say thank you in your cover letter. The hiring manager is giving you a slice of his or her precious time by just looking at your application. A preemptive thank you shows you’re good natured and conscious of the favor you’ve been given.
• When receiving an invite to interview, say thank you. Thousands of people could have applied for a position and you were considered worthy enough to interview. That’s a pretty big compliment. Whether over the phone or in writing, make sure to show your gratitude.
During the Interview
• Say thank you as you enter the room. Extend a friendly hand, make eye contact, and show your appreciation. Start off on the right foot.
• Say thank you for any compliments you receive. A conversation during an interview shouldn’t be anything out of the ordinary. If you’re paid a compliment, give a gracious acknowledgement of the gesture. It shows you’re not an egotist who expects kind words as a deserved matter of fact.
• Say thank you as you leave. Once again, any time you are given is precious. Always make sure you communicate how indebted you are for the chance to prove yourself.
After the Interview
• Quickly say thank you for the opportunity. Saying it during the interview isn’t enough. A customized thank you note shows that you were paying attention to the little details and are still interested in the position. It’s a great way to edge out your less conscientious competition.
• Don’t call to say thank you. It can rub a manager the wrong way, as it often feels like a waste of time. Reading a note takes up less of their time.
• Say thank you when you get the job. You wouldn’t be starting this new job if someone didn’t put faith in your skills. Say thank you in person to everyone who gave you a chance because it can be a leap of faith to hire a new employee. Let them know they chose right.
