cover letter after interview sample

How to Write a Thank You Email After an Interview (With Samples!)

You just walked out of a job interview. You gave great answers to all the interview questions and really hit it off with the hiring manager. You nailed it!

That’s great—but you’re not done yet. In fact, fair or not, most hiring managers pay very close attention to whether you write a thank you email after the interview (and you want a catchy subject line to go with it).

Our advice? Follow up as soon as humanly possible by writing a terrific interview thank you note . Below, we list out tips for writing the perfect thank you email—and provide a template to get you started.

Why you should send a thank you note after a job interview

Olivia Johnson, a Muse career coach with more than 20 years of experience in the corporate world, said there’s no good reason why you shouldn’t send a thank you note after every interview—and plenty of reasons why you should . For one thing, it’s proper business etiquette : “It’s almost like if you invite someone in your home, and then they’re leaving your property and don’t say anything as they walk out the door,” Johnson said. “They selected you to move forward and have a conversation with, so it deserves a thank you.”

One major benefit of the effort, she told The Muse, is that it immediately makes you stand out from other candidates who don’t send a follow-up email. “I always ask my clients after interviews, ‘Did you remember to send a thank you note?’ And usually, 80 to 90% of the time, I hear, ‘Oh, right,’ because they forget to do it,” she said.

Land more interviews by looking or more open jobs on The Muse »

It also helps you build on the rapport you established in the interview by reminding the hiring manager who you are, what you talked about, and how you’re a great fit for the job and company.

Finally, a thank you note can help alleviate any concerns you had about your conversation. Maybe you forgot to ask about a specific part of the role, or maybe you flubbed an answer and want to clarify your statement—here’s your second chance. “I actually had someone who did really well on the tech interview, but they missed a question. They went home, continued to figure it out, and then sent a note sharing what they came up with,” Johnson shared. “That’s impressive. That’s somebody that you want on your team.”

Even if the interview went swimmingly, Johnson still advised sending a thank you note. “Even if the interview went so awesomely that they offered you the job on the spot, you should be sending a thank you note,” she said. Plus, you won’t regret taking that extra effort to make your appreciation and excitement known.

Interview thank you email template

Hi [Interviewer Name],

Thank you so much for meeting with me today. It was such a pleasure to learn more about the team and position, and I’m very excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and help [bring in new clients/develop world-class content/anything else awesome you would be doing] with your team.

I look forward to hearing from you about the next steps in the hiring process, and please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can provide additional information.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

5 tips for sending a thank you note after an interview

Beyond following the template above, here’s what to keep in mind when crafting your professional thank you email.

1. Actually say “thank you”

In all your wordsmithing, don’t forget to thank the person for taking the time to meet or speak with you.

And Johnson emphasized that you should be thanking them for the discussion , not the interview. “Never reference it as an interview. A lot of people do that. They're like, ‘Thanks so much for interviewing me.’ It makes it seem more of a check-the-box process, especially if you had a great rapport or relationship starting to form with that person,” she said.

2. Keep it short and sweet

Brevity is key, Johnson said. No recruiter wants to read an entire page of flattery.

She recommended aiming for three 2-3 sentence paragraphs max, with the bulk of the message focusing on what stood out in your conversation and what you’re most excited about in the role.

3. Tailor it to your recipient

Each thank you note should be unique to the person you spoke with, if you want to grab their attention and leave a positive, lasting impression.

If, for example, you’re thanking an outside recruiter, you may not need to touch on the more technical aspects of the role that you talked about with someone internal. And, “if it’s an executive, you definitely don’t want to go into the day-to-day,” said Johnson. “They’re more visionary, so you want to say things about being eager to make an impact within the organization.”

4. Be your authentic (professional) self

There’s no need to try to mimic the interviewer’s tone or personality in your note. Johnson advised making it feel and sound like you (without coming off too casual—this isn’t a text to a friend). Doing so, she added, also ensures you’re the right match for the job. If you don’t mesh in writing, you’re likely not going to mesh well when you start working together.

However, it’s OK to mimic some of their internal language to show you can catch on to their processes and communications. For example, she said, “If you say ‘deadlines’ and they say ‘milestones,’ you might want to use ‘milestones.’”

5. Know it doesn’t have to be an email

Johnson noted that while email is the primary medium for sending a thank you note to a hiring manager or recruiter, it doesn’t have to be the only format you use. “It’s OK to use the platform where they found you. So if they reached out to you on LinkedIn, it is perfectly fine for you to message them back on LinkedIn to say thank you after an interview.”

Another way to go the extra mile—especially if your interviewer is more traditional or you have a feeling they’d appreciate a handwritten note—is to drop a card in the mailbox as well. To connect the two, you can simply add a line to your email like:

P.S. Just because I’m an appreciator of handwritten thank you notes myself, you should be receiving a letter in the mail/I dropped a letter off at the front desk as well!

(And yes, even if you send a snail mail note, you’ll still want to send the email thank you to cover your bases—just in case your interviewer doesn’t get the letter right away.)

Sample interview thank you emails

So, what does this template look like in practice? Here are some example thank you notes you can use to build your own perfect email.

A short-and-sweet thank you email template 

This one’s concise and to the point—perfect if you’re looking to quickly follow up after a phone interview or it’s an early-round discussion.

Thank you so much for chatting with me today. It was such a pleasure to learn more about the marketing manager role, and I’m very excited about the opportunity to join News Crew and help your team reach a new audience with your amazing content.

I look forward to hearing from you about next steps, but please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can provide any additional information.

All the best,

A specific thank you email template 

Show you were paying attention during the interview and reiterate what a great fit you’d be for the job with an email that looks like this:

Hi Ms. Bernard,

I just wanted to thank you for inviting me to your office today. It was great to hear about 4Apps’ goals for streamlining your software and placing an emphasis on quality UX design, as well as how you see the engineering department playing a role in these initiatives.

4Apps seems like a wonderful place to work—and not just because you mentioned some great summer outings! I really admire the mission that drives your business, and look forward to the opportunity to help your team implement some of the ideas I mentioned around redesigning the homepage.

Please let me know if there’s anything else you need from me to move the process forward.

Enjoy the rest of your week,

An above-and-beyond thank you email template

While the template above is all you need, if you really want to blow a hiring manager out of the water, add in another few lines before “I look forward to...” with some ideas you have on how you could add value. Think: a quick mock-up of something you discussed in the interview if you’re in a creative role, taglines if you’re in branding, or some slides or possible partners if you’re in business development or sales.

Thank you so much for meeting with me today. I really enjoyed learning more about your career trajectory at CarRuns (and hearing what it was like to join as the fifth employee—so impressive!) and where you see the company going in the next couple years.

To follow up on our conversation about churned clients, I’ve attached a short deck I mocked up on my initial ideas for increasing renewals. Happy to discuss further if you see it being a helpful resource.

I can tell CarRuns is a special place to work, and I would be thrilled to join such an innovative, hardworking, and passionate team of individuals. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can provide to make your hiring decision easier.

Adelaide Jenkins

How to send an additional follow-up email after an interview ( after your thank you note)

In a perfect world, we’d always hear back quickly after an interview—maybe even faster than the timeline they gave you during the conversation. But, of course, that’s not always the case. Here’s some advice on how to send a follow-up email after your thank you note:

• 4 Ways to Frame Your Follow-Up After an Interview
• Why You Should Follow Up If You Don’t Hear Back
• How Long You Should Wait to Follow Up (at Every Stage in Your Job Search)
• How Long It Usually Takes to Receive a Job Offer

Your thank you note sets the tone after your interview. So whatever you do: Don’t skip it . Use the template above to remind the hiring manager what a great applicant you are, and to show how much you care.

Alex Cavoulacos contributed to an earlier version of this article. 

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How to Write a Thank You Email After an Interview

• Christopher Littlefield

Advice on what to say — and what not to — along with sample email templates.

You’ve updated your resume, written your cover letter, and prepared for your interview. Now it’s time for your thank you note to seal the deal. In this piece, the author outlines what to say — and not to say — in your thank you email to interviewers and answers common questions like: How much detail should you include? When should you send it? And why is it important to do? He also includes three sample emails to use as a guide.

You’ve just finished an interview for a job opportunity you’re really excited about. You know you should send a thank you note to your interviewers, but you’re not sure what to write. How much detail should you include? Should you send an email to every person you interviewed with? And what’s really the best way to follow up ?

• Christopher Littlefield is an International/TEDx speaker specializing in employee appreciation and the founder of  Beyond Thank You . He has trained thousands of leaders across six continents to create cultures where people feel valued every day. He is the author of 75+ Team Building Activities for Remote Teams—Simple Ways to Build Trust, Strengthen Communication, and Laugh Together from Afar . You can follow his work through his weekly mailing  The Nudge .

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Effective Sample Thank-You Letters for After an Interview

Following a successful interview, sending a thank-you letter could help seal the deal.

Table of Contents

As the hiring process moves toward automation and speed, taking the time to write a thank-you letter helps you stand out from the crowd and humanizes your application. A thoughtfully written thank-you note provides you with the chance to reiterate your qualifications and add a touch of personality. Those two simple words – thank you – could be the very thing that lands you the job.

What should be included in a thank-you letter?

When writing a thank-you letter, keep it clear, straightforward and shorter than four paragraphs. Amanda Augustine, career advice expert for TopInterview and TopResume, cautioned against recapping your entire resume in your thank-you note, since the interviewer has already reviewed it and discussed it with you during the interview. A basic summary of your qualifications is appropriate. [Read related article: 6 Interview Skills That Will Get You Hired ]

Here are a few details that every thank-you letter should contain:

• Contact information: Include your own contact information, as well as the contact information of the person you’re writing to. It can also be beneficial to include the date.
• Salutation: Even if you have been referring to the interviewer in a more casual way, use the more formal form of address (e.g., Dear Mr. X) in the thank-you note.
• Appreciation: Write a sincere and specific expression of appreciation along with a concise description of what it is you appreciate.
• Something unique: Remind them of something unique that they spoke to you about in the interview that they might not have discussed with other candidates. This will help the interviewer remember who you are, and it will show them that you listen.
• Qualifications: Confirm you’re a good fit for the role.
• Expression of gratitude: Close with a final expression of gratitude, such as “Best” or “Sincerely.”
• Signature: You can use a typed signature if you are emailing a thank-you letter, but paper letters should always include a handwritten signature.

As with your resume and cover letter , customize your thank-you note. Double- and triple-check it for grammatical and spelling errors . A typo-filled follow-up can easily ruin the stellar impression you made during the interview. If you met with multiple people, send one note to each person.

Sample thank-you letters

If you are looking for a little extra guidance, here are a couple of templates you can follow for writing a thank-you letter after an interview. Take the time to personalize every letter you send – avoid copying and pasting the same basic form letter. Recruiters will notice these right away, and they won’t do you any good. Review post-interview mistakes to avoid when making a good impression.

Thank-you letter template 1

Good afternoon, Tim,

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me yesterday about the staff writer position with Business News Daily.

It was a pleasure meeting with you, and I truly enjoyed learning more about the role and the company. I especially loved hearing about your in-office MVP vote – it sounds like a great way to boost employee morale!

After our conversation, I am confident that my skills in business writing and experience as a copy editor are a great match for this opportunity. I am very enthusiastic about the possibility of joining your team and would greatly appreciate a follow-up as you move forward with the hiring process.

If you need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me by email or phone. Thanks again, and I hope to hear from you in the near future.

Best regards,

Nicole Smith

Thank-you letter template 2

Dear Ms. Nelson, 

I wanted to reach out to thank you for taking the time to speak with me yesterday about the social media manager position at Business News Daily.

I really enjoyed meeting you and learning more about where your team is headed. Based on our discussion, it sounds like you have a very exciting year ahead with the site updates and customer base expansion. 

With the team at such a critical juncture, I’d love to lend my experience and skills to help the team build a stronger customer base and social media presence – particularly bringing my unique lens as a marketer that we discussed from my time working at agencies. 

I look forward to speaking further with you and your team to see how I might be able to help you reach your goals. If we’re a good match, I would be very excited at the prospect of working together. 

Jimmy James

What is the preferred method of sending a thank-you note?

The best way to send a thank-you note will depend on the specific person or organization you are communicating with. While some companies prefer digital communications (e.g., email), others appreciate the novelty of a handwritten note.

Emailed thank-you notes

Augustine said that email is the most common method for sending a post-interview thank-you note “because of its immediacy and ability to attach materials or hyperlink to additional information that can help advance their candidacy to the next interview round.”

Augustine suggested that it is still important to check out the culture of the company and determine which method they would prefer. If you’re interviewing at a tech startup or see the company uses technology, email would likely be the most appropriate.

After you send your email, keep an eye on your inbox. Don’t panic if you don’t hear back right away – it’s normal for a company to take its time reviewing applications. If several days or weeks go by, send a polite follow-up to ask if there has been any progress in making a decision.

However, don’t take this as an invitation to bombard the hiring manager’s inbox. Send no more than two well-spaced follow-up emails, and if you don’t hear back after that, accept it as a rejection and move on.

Handwritten thank-you notes

On the flip side, if the company seems more old-fashioned and traditional, a handwritten note mailed to the office might get you further.

“I prefer handwritten notes,” said Rachel Sutherland, CEO of Rachel Sutherland Communications. “Everyone loves getting mail, especially something you’re not expecting. It’s kind of funny to think of snail mail as being special, but in this case, it works.”

If you’re doing a handwritten note, your method of delivering it depends on the timing of the hiring process. Jodi RR Smith, author and president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting, said that if you know they’ll be making their decision the next day, write the note as quickly as possible. In that instance, Smith suggests writing the thank-you note in the lobby and asking the receptionist to deliver it as soon as possible. [Learn how companies think about their hiring process and even how they think about contact management .]

Why are thank-you notes important?

There are many reasons why sending a thank-you note is important. Not only is it good business etiquette, but it also allows you to express your interest in the position and demonstrate that you are a good listener. 

“Sending a personalized thank-you note is exactly that – personal,” said Rebecca Kiki Weingarten, career transition coach and co-founder of RWR Network. “In our high-tech world, it makes a high-touch impact that stands out.”

The benefits of sending a thank you note are many, including the following:

They help you stand out.

A thank-you email should be sent within 24 hours of the interview, while you’re still fresh in the interviewer’s mind. Keep the content of the email brief – no more than three paragraphs – and reference particular points from the conversation.

Matt Ross, co-founder of Slumber Yard, remembers a candidate who went the extra mile in mentioning personal details from their interview.

“I briefly discussed my hometown, but what was amazing was that the candidate remembered my hometown and found a way to include it in his follow-up,” Ross said. “He said his brother would be passing through [my town], so he made sure to tell him to pick up a cake from a popular bakery there. This not only showed me he was a good listener, but also that he was willing to go above and beyond by doing research. It left me with a pretty good taste in my mouth – pun intended.”

They showcase business etiquette.

According to Smith, sending a note could show that you know other proper business etiquette, like standing when a client enters the room, not chewing gum in front of the CEO, holding doors open for others, arriving to meetings on time and dressing appropriately.

They demonstrate your interest in the role and organization.

A thank-you note is a great way to reiterate your interest in the role and organization.

“First, it is a basic appreciation of the time the interviewer spent with you,” Smith said. “Second, it is a signal to the interviewer that you are aware of higher-level interpersonal skills. Lastly, the thank-you note expresses your ongoing interest in the organization and the job opening.”

Conversely, failure to follow up could leave the impression you’re not interested enough to go the extra mile and reach out afterward.

Does sending a thank-you note really work?

Sending a thank-you note can be effective, if the note is well written.

“There are times when the candidate has a terrible first round, usually due to nerves,” Smith said. “But they took the time to write a sincere and well-considered note explaining their interest in the role and how their experience makes them uniquely qualified.”

Other times, Smith noted, there are phone screens instead of in-person interviews, and those who write a thank-you note are automatically invited back for an in-person interview. Sutherland had a similar experience.

“I got my college internship at The Detroit News because I handwrote a thank-you note,” Sutherland said. “How do I know? One day in the newsroom that summer, the editor told me I was the only one who wrote a thank-you.”

Augustine noted that sending a thank-you note doesn’t automatically increase your chances of getting the job; however, dismissing this bit of post-interview etiquette might decrease your chances of receiving an offer.

“While not every recruiter or hiring manager cares whether a candidate sends a thank-you message, I’ve never heard of a single one, in any industry, think poorly of a candidate for sending a thank-you note,” she added.

Gratitude goes a long way

Thank you notes may not always be a magic bullet, but they can help you stick out in the minds of hiring managers. In an era where job candidates are rapidly applying to dozens of positions and moving from one opportunity to another, taking the time to craft a personalized thank-you note following an interview can give you that extra boost that sends you over the top. So, if you really want to land that job and give yourself every opportunity to succeed, consider putting pen to paper and sending a heartfelt thank you for a recruiter or hiring manager’s consideration.

Skye Schooley and Tejas Vemparala contributed to this article. Source interviews were conducted for a previous version of this article. 

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Sep 7, 2022

How to write a thank you email after interview with 25 examples

Don't forget to send a 'thank you' email after your interview. Use one of our 25 sample thank you emails after interview to do it professionally.

Lawrie Jones

Table of contents

The interview's done, and it's time to sit back and relax? Wrong. It's professional and polite to send a short thank you email to your recruiter. If done correctly, it can improve your personal brand and even increase your chances of getting the job or that coveted final interview.

We know that many job seekers struggle with how to say thank you after an interview, so we've created this in-depth article that answers all your questions. You'll learn when to send a thank you email after an interview, what to include (and exclude) and how to shape your response to different circumstances.

In our guide on how to send a thank you email after an interview, we include 25 examples that you can use to shape your emails.

We also introduce you to Flowrite , your personal assistant that can write your emails for you. Check it out in action:

Should I send a thank you email after an interview?

Let's start by answering one of the most common questions job seekers ask: should I send thank you email after the interview? 

The answer is 100% yes, and here's why. 

Competition for jobs is fierce, and even securing an interview is a tough task. For example, UK statistics show an average of more than  500 applications for low-skilled roles , 250 for medium-skilled vacancies, and 56 for high-skilled vacancies.

Think it gets easier when you've got an interview? It doesn't. The average company will interview between 6-10 applicants for each role. Before making an offer, they'll see each candidate 2 or 3 times to identify the person who best suits the role.

In such a competitive market, you must take every opportunity you can to make the best impression. A well-written and engaging post-interview email is a professional courtesy to improve your personal brand. 

It demonstrates to the recruiter that you're passionate and proactive. It shows that you're motivated for the opportunity and inspired to act.

A post-interview email also allows you to clarify details, provide additional information that you promised during the meeting, and even the chance to clear up any misunderstandings that may have occurred.

Even if the recruiter chooses not to take your application forward, a post-interview email will keep you at the forefront of their minds for future opportunities.

It's not a case of whether you should write thank you email after an interview, but when. So, let's answer that question.

When to send thank you email after the interview?

Many jobseekers struggle with how soon to send a thank you email after an interview. Of course, access to smartphones means we can probably bash out a basic thank you in seconds, but that's not the right approach.

The accepted timeframe for sending a thank you email after the interview is 24 hours after the interview. This gives you enough time to reflect on the discussion and provide a considered response.

Why? "Taking the time to craft an informed answer, rather than a rushed one, is always going to benefit you in the long term," says  entrepreneur A.M. Reid . Conversely, a thoughtless email reply is a "disaster in the making," he says, which can lead to anxiety and stress. 

Giving yourself time to reflect is crucial at crafting a professional post-interview email that elicits a positive response.

Email format for thank you email after interview

There are no actual rules on how to format a thank you email after an interview. Still, we suggest you approach it as you would when writing any other professional email. You must start with a  formal email opening ,  introduce yourself professionally , and find words that  strike the right tone  and resonate with the recipient. While you may have made a personal connection with your interviewer(s), you must remain formal. 

The ideal interview thank you email format includes: 

• Targeted subject line
• Appropriate personal greeting
• Appropriate sign-off

Let's look at each of these in greater detail.

1. Thank you email after interview subject line 

The thank-you email after the interview subject line is the first thing your recipient will see pop up in their inbox, so keep it simple.

Remember that you're applying for a job (or professional position or role), so keep your post interview thank you email subject professional even if you know the person you're emailing. The ideal interview thank you email subject line is short, sweet, and to the point.  

Here are a few thank you email interview subject lines you could use: 

• Thank you for the interview
• Thanks for meeting with me
• Great to meet today

Context is critical when deciding on an appropriate thank you for the interview email subject link. If you know the person, you can be a little less formal in the after interview thank you email subject. Check out our examples below to see how we've found the balance between personality and professionalism.

2. What to say in thank you email after interview  

You must include some standard things, but there is flexibility in what to say in the post-interview thank you email. It all depends on context. 

Here's what you must include in every post-interview thank you.

• Thank the interviewer for their time
• Explain why you're a good fit for the role
• Express enthusiasm about the future
• Offer to provide more information and answer any questions
• End the email politely and ask about future steps

Depending on the interview, your personal relationship, and professional context, here are a few things you could include in your email after an interview.

• Provide examples of works, links to previous organizations, etc.
• Answer any questions raised in the interview
• Links to social profiles, including LinkedIn
• Clarify any information and clear up any misunderstandings
• Add additional examples you have forgotten to mention in the interview

Ultimately, the decision on what to say in thank you email after the interview depends on the role, the recruiter, the situation, and the context. It can be nerve-wracking putting pen to paper (or finger to key), but our advice on how to thank someone for an interview is to keep things simple. Don't spend too much time worrying about how to write a thank-you note after an interview. Instead, follow our outline above, and you'll be writing crisp and clear correspondence straight away.

Sample thank you email after interview

We've outlined the fundamental parts of how to write a thank you after an interview; now, let's put it into practice. Here are 25 thank you emails after interview samples you can adapt and use. You shouldn't copy and paste them but use these samples to craft your own thank you letter after an interview. Ready to get started?

1. Thank you email after Zoom interview

A direct result of the pandemic is the increase in Zoom interviews. Zoom interviews can be challenging, but they're super-flexible and often fun too. So here's a standard thank you email after Zoom interview:  

2. Thank you email after a video interview

Microsoft Teams, Skype, Google Meet are popular video interview platforms you might use, but what happens if your connection plays up? After an interview, a professional thank you email can be used to tackle any issues head-on, providing reassurance that they won't happen again. So here's how to write a thank you email after a video interview that's gone wrong.

3. Thank you email after the virtual interview

A virtual interview is a popular choice for recruiters in the pandemic. Here's how to create a thank you email after a virtual interview.

4. Thank you email after a phone interview

Phone interviews are often the first stage in the process and (if successful) lead to a further interview in person. The core parts of a good phone interview thank you email are the same, but you'll want to push slightly for an in-person meeting. After a phone interview, you may find yourself writing to the person you spoke to or crafting a thank you email to the recruiter. Regardless of the audience, the approach is the same. Here's our thank you email after phone interview example.

5. The second interview thank you email

The second interview thank you email will likely be more in-depth, detailed, and targeted. Your second interview thank you email subject line can be slightly less formal, as you'll see in this, our next example.

6. Short thank you email after an interview

If you don't have the time, or simply don't want to write a lengthy message, our quick thank you email after the interview template is for you. This short and sweet thank you letter is suitable for all situations. But, of course, you can always add greater detail if you need to.

7. Thank you email after the final interview

The thank-you email after the final interview is likely to be your last chance of making a good impression before a decision is made. You may question the wisdom of sending a thank you email after the final round interview (mainly if a decision has already been made and you haven't been told), but trust us – it's essential. It demonstrates that you're enthusiastic, motivated, and still in the market for a new role. So even if this role isn't for you, a new one could be just around the corner. Here's our final interview thank you email template.

8. Simple thank you email after interview

Our simple interview thank you email demonstrates that more words don't mean greater impact. We've stripped this one back to the basics to provide a streamlined solution. This simple thank you email after the interview is ideal for those with limited time to reply.

9. College interview thank you email

Getting into college is more competitive than ever, and a well-written and conscientious college thank you email could see you grab a space. Colleges are searching for candidates with a rich academic background and broad personal interests, so feel free to add some of yourself to your messages. Here's a captivating college interview thank you email.

10. Internal interview thank you email

In this interview thank you email example, we focus on crafting an appropriate internal interview thank you email. You may know the person who interviewed you, and you'll undoubtedly have an insight into the company. Still, you should avoid being too friendly and focus on the fundamentals of a good post-interview thank you email. Here's how

11. Residency interview thank you email

A pharmacy residency interview thank you email can make a huge difference in securing a prized position. We prioritize your passion and professionalism in this post residency interview thank you email template. We've also provided a clear residency interview thank you email subject to help you stand out for all the right reasons.

12. Teacher interview thank you email

Becoming a teacher is a dream for many of us, and you'd expect teachers to write the best thank you emails, but it's not always the case. In this post teacher interview thank you email, we provide a logical way to express enthusiasm, explain your qualifications, and push for another interview. Here's a thank you email after a teacher interview template.

13. Thank you email after an academic interview sample 

Academic interviews are a chance for you to establish your credentials, share your experience and insights. In this thank you email after an academic interview, we show how you can express appreciation and promote your professional work. Here's our academic interview thank you email template.

14. Thank you email to a recruiter after an interview

Many of us find new jobs through recruitment agencies and consultants, so we should thank them too. This interview thank you letter sample demonstrates how you can thank a recruiter. This polite and professional response will likely keep them on your side and help you find future opportunities.

15. Medical school interview thank you email

Getting into medical school is a magnificent achievement because the entrance process is so competitive. A medical school interview thank you email is a must. In our example for a thank you email after the medical school interview, we establish our interest in the school, express our enthusiasm and explain why we're a great candidate. You can edit and adapt this medical school interview thank you email template to your circumstances and college.

16. Internship interview thank you email

In the working world, an internship can accelerate your career, which is why competition for the best is too fierce. A thank you internship interview email could make the difference between success and failure, so spend time crafting a message that shows insight, commitment, and passion. To help you, we've also included an appropriate internship interview thank you email subject line that you can use.

17. Grad school interview thank you email

Getting into grad school is tough, so make it a little easier with our thank you email after grad school interview template. We've focused on your academic qualifications, passion, and potential. 

18. Thank you email after an interview for administrative assistant

As we explained above, the average administrative assistant position will attract over 500 applications, so getting an interview is an incredible achievement. Our sample thank you email after the interview for an administrative assistant will help you take the next step to a second interview and appointment. In this sample of an administrative assistant thank you email after the interview, we focus on your core skills and determination to succeed.

19. Panel interview thank you email

Writing a thank you email after a panel interview is challenging as you must address multiple people. In this thank you email after a panel interview sample, we demonstrate how to address an email to several recipients and invite a future conversation and correspondence. Check out our panel interview thank you email example.

20. Thank you email after interview with multiple interviewers

Like the email above, when writing a thank you email after an interview with multiple interviewers, you have to address each individually and collectively. Here's an example of a thank you email after an interview to multiple interviewers.

21. First-round interview thank you email 

During the first round of interviews, recruiters search for opportunities to cut down on the numbers. A timely and targeted first interview thank you email will ensure you have a great chance of securing a slot for the second round. We keep things upbeat and positive in this example of a thank you email after the first interview.

22. Law firm interview thank you email sample

Law firms are famously discerning, with limited opportunities open to outsiders. They're also sticklers for detail, so accuracy and clarity are critical. Legal eagles will find our law firm interview thank you email template simple and clear.

23. Thank you email after an informational interview

Informational interviews are designed to get to a person's heart, problem or situation. You'll dig into the details during an informational interview, but you may want to add more afterward. In this thank you email after an informational interview template, we show you how to provide the information you need.

24. Thank you email after a group interview 

Group interviews are an opportunity for you to stand out and make an impression, something our sample thank you note after an interview will help you with.

25. Engineering interview thank you email 

Our example of a  thank you email after an engineering interview tackles the technical and provides a chance for you to demonstrate your knowledge and experience. It's tempting to stick everything in an email. Still, we've prioritized focusing on what's important: getting a second interview. Check out our engineering interview thank you email template below.

Need some more post-interview email inspiration?

We hope you can use one of these sample thank you emails after your interview. We've tried to keep them professional and to the point, as that's what readers want.

The most straightforward approach is to cut, paste and personalize them for your circumstances and situation. However, we recommend that you spend some time writing a thank you note after the job interview and focus on the critical points of your conversations.

A good tip is to jot down some notes straight after your interview. Make sure to include the topics you discussed, any questions you were asked, the information you needed to supply, or questions you wanted to ask (but didn't).

This can provide the background information for your post-interview email inspiration. 

Interview thank you email template by Flowrite

The difference between writing a good and great thank you email after an interview can be as simple as Flowrite. We've provided you with some inspiration with our thank you email after interview template, but to truly create emails that inspire your readers, you need Flowrite.

Flowrite is an AI-powered writing assistant that can help anyone produce effective and error-free post-interview emails. You provide the basic information, and Flowrite transforms it into professional prose that gets results every time.

Writing the perfect interview thank you email

Writing the perfect interview thank you email isn't easy, but it's something you should always strive for.

Instead of rushing in, reflect on the discussion and review your notes before writing. Our interview thank you email templates illustrate how you can approach the task but should be used only as a starting point for you to edit, adapt and personalize to your unique needs. Over time, you'll find that creating compelling emails gets easier.

However, if you don't have the time or simply want to write effective post-interview emails without the mental drain, we suggest you take Flowrite for a spin.

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Thank You Email After Interview - 2024 Guide & Examples

How-to Guide for an Interview Follow-up Email

What should you do after a job interview? First, let out a deep breath. Regardless of how it went, you can relax. The hard part is over. But don’t think you are in the clear completely.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that once the interview is over, you should just wait to be contacted with a decision. This is not the case. Within an hour of being interviewed, there are steps you can take to improve your chances of being hired.

This guide will cover what you should do at various stages once an interview is complete. Specifically, we will look at:

• What to do right after a job interview
• When and how to send a thank you email after interview
• When and how to follow up after an interview
• What to do if you are invited for a second interview
• What to do when you are declined or selected for a position

The chances are good that all of these steps will apply to you at some point. Follow each of them, and hopefully, you’ll soon be thinking of how to prepare for your first day on the job.

What to Do Right After a Job Interview

Resist the urge to go straight to the pub. Of course, you should celebrate a bit, assuming all went smoothly. However, whether you feel you aced the interview or not, you should immediately look for an opportunity to write down some notes.

I know what you’re thinking, “I just spent days stressing over this interview, and now you want me to spend more time thinking about!?” Yes, that’s exactly right. But don’t worry, it will be over soon enough.

While you interview it’s a good idea to take notes on what the recruiter tells you; however, it’s also easy to miss jotting something important down if you are focused on being responsive. So, when you finish an interview, whether you go home straight away or sit down somewhere else, take a moment to reflect on any important information mentioned during the interview, compare this with your notes, and write down anything you may have missed. 

The reason behind is that you will capture information that may help you prepare for a second interview or to help you make a decision should you be offered a job. Salary information, job responsibilities, requested references /portfolios/work samples, and even the names of all of your interviewers are good to capture on paper for future reference. 

Writing a Thank You Email After an Interview  

Wondering when is the best time to send a thank you note after an interview? The short answer is three hours. You’ll often hear of a 24-hour rule, but it doesn’t make sense to put this off so long. At the same time, you don’t want to seem pushy or desperate – sounds a lot like a first date, right?

The reasons for writing a thank you email after an interview are three-fold: first, to show courtesy and good manners; two, to leave one last reminder of why you are suited for the job; and three, to reiterate your interest. 

Don’t worry, this interview thank you note should be short and sweet. Here is a sample of what an interview thank you letter should look like:

Dear (Mr./Ms. recruiter last name),

Thank you once again for meeting with me earlier today and for discussing the (Position name) role. I enjoyed learning more about the position and (Company X).

As I mentioned during our conversation, I think that my (skills/experience in a given specialty) would be particularly valuable in contributing to your work on (area or project types). 

If there is anything else that I can provide in order to assist your decision, please let me know. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Kind regards,

(Your name)

This type of note assumes that you ARE interested in the position. Sometimes an interview will make you realize that a job isn’t in fact suited to you. If this is the case, and you are sure that you will not accept a job offer, use the interview thank you email to politely state that you are no longer interested in the position.

When and How to Follow Up After An Interview

One of the questions you should ask during a job interview is “What is the next step in your hiring process?” This gives you an idea of when you will hear back from the company.

It’s important to respect the job hiring process that recruiters go through. If the person that interviewed you told you that a decision will be made by next Wednesday, don’t contact them before this apart from your thank you note. 

You may be really interested in the position, and you want to try to persuade the company that you are the right person for the job. But don’t. It runs the risk of a recruiter perceiving you as a bad listener or disrespectful of other people’s time.

However, let’s say that the recruiter said you could expect to hear back by Wednesday, and it’s now Wednesday afternoon. Well, in that case, it’s time to act. There is nothing wrong with sending a short interview follow-up note to see if the company has made a decision.

I hope all is well with you. I am just following up to see if you have come to a decision regarding the position (Position name). If not, could you please let me know when a decision might be made?

Thank you kindly, and please let me know if you require further information regarding my qualifications.

After you send this email, you should expect a reply within 24 hours. If you don’t get one, your best bet is to give the recruiter a call to inquire about where the company is in the process of making a decision.

What to Do If You Are Invited For a Second Interview

Depending on the company you are interviewing with, you may be asked to come in for a second interview. This often happens with larger companies with more elaborate recruiting systems. However, small companies also use multiple interviews to ensure you are the right fit for their team.

If you receive a phone call or email asking you to come in for a second interview, you want to collect as much information as possible about who you will be speaking with and how it may be different from the first interview.

For example, you will want to ask questions like: 

• “Will I be meeting with the same team members as the other day?”
• “Is there anything specific that I should be ready to discuss?”
• “Should I expect to be tested on any particular skills?” (E.g. computer programming, writing)

Make a note of all of this information and then prepare accordingly.

What to Do When You Are Declined a Position

You will not always get the job you want. It’s hard to fit perfectly into a company’s needs. So don’t take it personally if you are contacted following a job interview and told you didn’t get the job. Instead, treat this as a learning opportunity.

When a recruiter contacts you with the bad news, thank him/her again for the consideration but also ask a couple of questions. First, explain that you would like to improve your interviewing skills and ask for suggestions on how you can interview better in the future. Second, ask if there any qualifications or experiences that would make you a more appealing candidate. 

You may or may not get specific feedback, but there’s a chance you will learn something valuable for future interviews.

What to Do When You Are Offered a Job Position

This depends a great deal on your situation. The recruiter goes through a tough process deciding to offer you a job, but you have a lot to consider as well.

You should realize that when you are offered a job, either by phone or by email, this initiates a process of negotiation. One of the basics of negotiation is that you never want to be taken by surprise since it can lead to an irrational decision. Therefore, when you receive the good news that a company wants to hire you, follow this process:

• Let the recruiter do the talking – Have him/her share as much information as possible regarding salary, benefits, starting date, etc.
• Ask clarification questions – If there is anything that you are unsure about, try to get some clarity.
• Don’t act too fast – The emotion of getting offered a job may push you to want to accept right away. However, recruiters often don’t expect an immediate decision. Therefore, ask when they need you to make a decision. Chances are you will have a day or two to think it over. But if the recruiter wants your decision sooner, try to negotiate at least a couple of hours.

Again, it’s important not to overlook the importance of all the post-interview steps discussed above. And frankly, each of these steps is far less cumbersome than the amount of effort you put into building your resume , writing your cover letter and preparing for an interview . So stay focused and see the process through to the end.

Pro tip: end your thank you email with professional email signature. You can check examples here !

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Recruiter’s Guide to Perfect Thank You Emails After Interviews

Published: April 25, 2024

After Your Interview

Actionable advice from real experts:

Biron Clark

Former Recruiter

Contributor

Dr. Kyle Elliott

Career Coach

Hayley Jukes

Editor-in-Chief

Biron Clark , Former Recruiter

Kyle Elliott , Career Coach

Hayley Jukes , Editor

Imagine leaving your interview, feeling a mix of relief and excitement after a great conversation with the hiring manager.

But there’s one more step to solidify that positive impression: the thank-you note.

Often overlooked, this simple gesture could set you apart in a crowded field of candidates. In this article, I’m going to share exactly what to do (and NOT do) when thanking the employer, based on my experience as a recruiter .

• Send your thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview to keep your interaction fresh in the interviewer’s mind.
• Customize your thank you note after the interview to reflect specific aspects of the conversation to demonstrate attentiveness and interest.
• Keep the email concise, aiming for a length of 85 to 150 words to convey professionalism and respect for the recipient’s time.
• Follow up politely if you don’t receive a response within a week, to show persistence without appearing pushy.

Why Is It Important To Write a Thank You Email After an Interview?

The post-interview thank you email is something you should get in the habit of sending, no matter what the anticipated outcome is.

Doing so shows the interviewer that you appreciated their time, and just as importantly, that you’re still interested in the position.

After attending an interview, the employer isn’t sure that you still want this job (just like you’re not sure if the interview went well and they want to hire you).

So it’s important to write a thank you message to reaffirm your interest and tell them that you’re eager to hear about the next steps.

EXPERT ADVICE

Dr. Kyle Elliott , MPA, CHES Tech & Interview Career Coach caffeinatedkyle.com

Can a well-crafted thank-you thank you letter after the interview influence the decision-making process?

Unless two candidates are equally qualified in every aspect, an email following up after your job interview is unlikely to be the determining factor that secures you a job offer. 

However, when executed well, the thank-you note is a fantastic opportunity to further demonstrate your communication skills and follow-through abilities, as well as reinforce that you’re the right choice for the role. It’s also the perfect method for highlighting any points you may have forgotten to mention during the interview or wanted to further clarify.

When To Send a Thank You Email or Letter After an Interview

Aim to send your post-interview thank you email the day after your job interview, between 12pm and 3pm.

If your interview was on a Friday, send your email the same day. (This is to avoid sending your email on a weekend). 

Always make sure the email is sent within 24 hours of your interview so your conversation is still fresh in the interviewer’s mind.

If you decide to send your thank you note as a letter in the mail, you should post it within one or two business days of your job interview. You can read my opinion on mail vs letter below.

I recommend you ask the interviewer for their business card after an in-person interview so that you have their email address and name to hand!

If you went on a video or phone interview, you can ask for their contact details at the end of the conversation. Simply explain that it’s to follow up and send a thank you letter after the interview.

How to Write an Interview Thank You Email

• Begin with a professional or formal greeting (e.g. “Hello Susan,” or “Dear Susan,”)
• Thank the interviewer and tell them that you appreciate their time spent during the job interview
• Mention something specific you talked to them about or what you enjoyed learning about in the interview (so they know that this interview thank you email is written specifically for them)
• Reaffirm your interest in the position and tell the interviewer that you look forward to hearing about the next steps in the hiring process
• Tell the interviewer that they should feel free to contact you if they need any additional information
• Optional: Include something to reaffirm that you’re confident you can perform well in this role and explain why
• If you interviewed with multiple people in a single day and want to thank them all, send a separate thank you email to each for a more personalized feel.

Pinpoint a moment in the conversation that really spoke to you, and share how it connects with your own skills and experiences. For instance, you might say, ‘The discussion around [Company value] really hit home for me because it aligns closely with my own values, particularly [Your similar value]. With my experience in [Your experience], I see a great opportunity to bring value and contribute meaningfully to your team.

How Long Should Your Thank You Email Message Be?

In my experience as a recruiter , a short thank you email after the interview is best. On average, I recommend 85 to 150 words (a couple of sentences). 

The rule applies to emails written after a phone interview , Zoom/video interview , or a second/third in-person interview. No matter what the first interaction entailed or how it occurred, a short thank you email after the interview will make a nice impression.

Michael Kerr emphasizes:

An email should be brief and to the point. Aim for 3-4 sentences thanking them for their time, reiterating your interest, and mentioning your qualifications. Keep the tone professional and positive.

Thank You Email After Interview Examples: Subject Lines That Get Noticed

Use any of the following subject lines when sending your professional thank you email:

• Thank you for your time
• Thanks for your time
• Thank you for your time on <day>
• Following up on our conversation
• A follow-up (and brief thank you!)
• Thank you for meeting with me!
• I enjoyed our meeting
• It was great meeting you in person on <day>
• Thank you for considering me as your next <position>
• Thank you for a great meeting, <name of recruiter>

Top 4 Thank You Email Samples from a Recruiter

I have prepared some example thank you emails for you to use as inspiration. You can use the samples as a guide when drafting your own email:

Email 1: Short and Casual Thank You Email

This is a short, casual email that’s best for modern industries like tech, e-commerce, digital marketing, etc (characterized by a more informal and direct style of communication). This type of short message also makes an ideal thank-you email to a recruiter or HR person after a phone interview or another first-round interview.

Hello <Interviewer’s Name>,

Thank you for taking the time to interview me on <day of interview>. I enjoyed our conversation about <specific topic you discussed> and it was great learning about the <Job Title> position.

It sounds like an exciting opportunity and a role I could succeed and excel at. I’m looking forward to hearing any updates you can share. 

Don’t hesitate to contact me if you have questions or concerns in the meantime.

Best regards,

<Your First and Last Name>

John D. Ph: +11 1111 1111 Website: johndoe.net

Email 2: Formal Thank You Interview Email

The sample uses a tone and style that’s more formal and well-suited to various industries or corporate positions. It also mentions a specific detail, making it easier for the recruiter to remember you.

Dear <Interviewer’s Name>,

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me on <day of interview> about the <Job Title> position at <Company Name>. It was a pleasure talking with you, and I enjoyed learning more about the opportunity.

The information you shared about <Something specific about the job that interests you> sounded particularly interesting.

I am confident that my <mention specific skills or experience> will allow me to succeed in this role, and it’s a position I’d be excited to take on.

I’m looking forward to hearing from you about the next steps, and please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need any additional information in the meantime.

Thank you again.

Jane D. Ph: +11 1111 1111 Website: janedoe.net

Email 3: Thank You Email After a Virtual Interview

The email is specific enough to help the recruiter remember exactly who you are. It also demonstrates your ongoing interest in the position.

Hello <Interviewer’s Name>

I’m writing to thank you and express my gratitude for the time you dedicated to our video interview on <day or date>. I really enjoyed learning more about <Something you learned in the interview).

I’d like to confirm my interest in the <Job Title> position. I believe my <set of skills> make me the perfect candidate.

If you have additional questions or if we need to complete additional steps as a part of the recruitment process, please let me know. I’d be more than happy to move on to the next step.

Kind regards,

<Your Name>

Email 4: Second Interview Thank You Email

In your thank-you email after a second interview, you can go slightly more in-depth to share what you’ve enjoyed hearing about the role so far, what excites you about the opportunity, and why you’d excel in this job. You can even reference relevant information that you discussed with other team members in other interviews.

Dear <Interviewer’s Name?,

Thank you for meeting with me to discuss the <Job Title>role.

I enjoyed hearing about how the position will balance internal project leadership and client meetings as the company grows.

In my previous phone interview, <Phone Interviewer’s Name> mentioned that my <Experience / Background> would serve me well in this job opportunity, and after hearing you describe the <responsibilities>, I can see where my skills would fit in and allow me to make an immediate contribution.

I’m confident this role fits my skill set and long-term goals, and I look forward to the next steps in the interview process.

Don’t hesitate to contact me if you need any further information. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best regards, <Your Name>

How and When to Follow Up After a Thank You Email

If you don’t hear back from a recruiter after five days of sending the thank you for the interview email, following up one last time makes sense. Sometimes, emails get lost. Sometimes, recruitment professionals get busy and distracted. 

Something along the following lines would be a good message to send:

Dear <Name of Recruiter>

Since I haven’t heard back from you after our interview on <date>, I’m sending a quick note to confirm my interest in the position and inquire about the recruitment process.

Are there any updates or any additional steps I need to complete? I’d love to learn a bit more and I’d be excited to find out I’m being considered for the position.

If you still don’t hear back from them, you should probably abandon the opportunity and move on to another employment chance.

Email vs. Note: Choosing the Best Way to Say Thank You After an Interview

I get asked this frequently: For most people, I recommend email because:

• You can make sure it gets delivered at the exact time you want
• It’s easier and takes less time
• It’s more modern and simpler for the company
• A letter could get lost while being posted, never making it to the recipient

However, in specific cases, a paper thank you note/letter might be better. If you’re in a very traditional industry (like wedding planning) or if you’re interviewing for a high-level position (like CFO , Head of Operations, etc.). 

A letter can add a degree of traditional elegance and personalization that emails don’t have. Still, in most industries and scenarios, a thank you email would be the way to go.

One more option to consider: You could write a personalized thank you card and then send a picture of it digitally, either in a LinkedIn message or an email. That’s a good way to stand out.

Common Mistakes I’ve Seen Candidates Make in Thank You Emails

While a thank you interview email is fairly simple to write, there’s still room for error. Some of the most common mistakes that candidates commit when contacting recruiters this way include:

Not Customizing the Email

Even the best thank you email templates or examples appear low-effort (and will NOT impress the interviewer) if you don’t customize them. So how can you customize the email? Here are some ideas.

• First, you could mention something interesting you learned about the job or company from the recruiter. What caught your attention and sounded exciting about the position?

You could reference one or two of their interview questions and answers you gave in response. For example, you could say:

“I really enjoyed your question about ___ and the discussion it led to. It was also great learning about how XYZ company does ___”.

• Or you could mention something personal they discussed with you! Maybe the interviewer told you they’re watching their son at a big basketball tournament that evening. You could say:

“By the way, I hope your son’s team did great at the basketball tournament. How did things turn out?”

• As another example, maybe you mentioned that you love coffee, and the interviewer said, “Oh, then you HAVE to try Corner House Coffee. Best coffee in town.” You could write:

“By the way, I tried a latte from Corner House Coffee on the way home, and you were absolutely right. It was the best coffee I’ve had in a long time.”

A cookie-cutter thank-you note just isn’t enough. Make sure to mention something specific from your conversation to demonstrate your attentiveness and involvement. And if you met with multiple people, take a moment to send a personalized thank-you note to each panel member!

The bottom line is : The more you customize your email after the interview, the more hiring managers will appreciate it. You’ll notice that each sample email above includes space for customization, and this is why.

Failing to Proofread

A typo is an eyesore. It also suggests sloppiness. Not taking the time to proofread your thank you note, even if you commit a tiny mistake, will raise a red flag.

Email templates are only as good as the effort you put into filling them out and proofreading them. Go over every detail and make sure it actually makes sense for your situation. If not, sending that thank you email or letter will do more harm than good.

Example: In the third sample email earlier in this article, it says, “Thank you for taking the time to meet with me.” If you had a phone interview, you should say, “Thank you for taking the time to talk on the phone with me.”

Appearing Too Pushy or Unprofessional 

Sounding too pushy or aggressive will be an immediate turnoff for a recruiter. Keep your thank you note meaningful but lighthearted. An optimistic, friendly tone will get you noticed for the right reasons.

Sending multiple follow-up emails is also a big no-no as it enters the pushy territory once again.

Finally, try to make your note genuine. Tell the person who interviewed you why you are thankful. A cookie-cutter approach towards email creation will make you sound disingenuous and shallow – two qualities that you don’t want to have attached to your persona

More Interview Resources

• How to Respond to an Interview Request (Email Samples)
• How to Respond to a Lowball Job Offer (Sample Emails)
• How Many Interviews For One Job? (Stats From a Recruiter)

About the Author

Biron Clark is a former executive recruiter who has worked individually with hundreds of job seekers, reviewed thousands of resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and recruited for top venture-backed startups and Fortune 500 companies. He has been advising job seekers since 2012 to think differently in their job search and land high-paying, competitive positions. Follow on Twitter and LinkedIn .

Read more articles by Biron Clark

About the Contributor

Kyle Elliott , career coach and mental health advocate, transforms his side hustle into a notable practice, aiding Silicon Valley professionals in maximizing potential. Follow Kyle on LinkedIn .

About the Editor

Hayley Jukes is the Editor-in-Chief at CareerSidekick with five years of experience creating engaging articles, books, and transcripts for diverse platforms and audiences.

Continue Reading

Recruiter’s Guide to Follow-Up Emails After Interviews

Asking for feedback after a job rejection: do’s and don’ts, how to provide references for a job, how many references should you have, how to tell a company you have another offer, when do employers check references, how to know you got the job: 7 clues, 45 thoughts on “recruiter’s guide to perfect thank you emails after interviews”.

Is it too late to send a letter of thank you after 4 days of interview for a job. Let me hear your opinion about this. Anyway I would go and send it. Thanks.

I would wait at this point, Stephen. I think it’s a bit late. However, if and when you circle back to ask if they’ve made a decision, you could start by thanking them and telling them that you were excited by what you learned in the interview, and that you’re eager to hear about the next steps.

Thank you very much for the well explained notes,i really appreciate, it was helpful.With this information i have learnt a lot.With no doubt i am going to use this after each and every interview that am going to attend in my life.

should I rename the email title or just leave it as it was: interview invitation

Hello! I recently had an interview with three interviewers present. Unfortunately, I only have one e-mail address and reaching out via phone to each interviewer is the only way to get the e-mail addresses. Should I send one e-mail with all three names or is there something else I should do?

Should I still send a thank you email even when the hiring manager said they’ll let me know the next day or the following day at the latest.

Hi Alex. I would.

I just did an oral examination that uses the point system. They did not have my resume or my supplemental questionnaire, nor did they want it since the meeting was to score my responses to the questions asked. Should I send a thank you email to at least let them know I appreciated their time and meeting them?

Sure, it can’t hurt. If you met someone face to face, I like the idea of thanking them and letting them know you appreciate their time. (Like you said, basically).

Just wanted to say thank you for all of the helpful information on obtaining my dream job! I did used a lot of your tips & suggestions on interviews & they paid off! I was out of a permanent position since 2017 & totally discouraged about it. Since I’m in the “older generation” Read your helpful interview tips & information & put them to the test. They were on point! I got it on my own, instead of going through an agency like I have in the past.

What if you forget to send a thank you email and miss the window of opportunity to send a thank you email, to the first person you interview with, but somehow end up getting a call for a second interview with a different hiring manager. Do I send two separate emails? A thank you email to the first hiring manager and a thank you email to the second hiring manager?

Just send one to the latest hiring manager you spoke with, after the second interview. It’s too late for the first one, and it doesn’t matter now since they invited you back to interview anyway

Great information, Thank You!!

Great info thanks a million

Thank you have interview today and nervous

Very useful tips. Many thanks.

If there was more than one person conducting the interview, is it ok to send one email to both of them?

Edit: I misread this.

No. Do not send one email to two people. That’s going to look lazy. If you want to thank both people, send separate emails.

Just personalize the “thank you” email and mention something specific to each person (something you enjoyed hearing about, etc.) so they know it’s not cut & paste if they compare emails or are sitting next to each other in the office.

Should I send the post interview thank you letter as an attached word document, or have the email be the actual thank you letter?

Hi Benjamin- great question. I’d usually recommend just writing it in the actual email, and that’s what I’d do myself. Hope this helps!

If I met with more than 4 people on my interview, would you send the thank you email to each individually or include them all in one email??

Don’t include them all in one. Send it separately.

I recently jus came from an interview that didnt really go as planned . i was entirely too nerous but the supervisor seemed to really like me. Should i send a thank you email ? and if so do i point out the bad? or try to re-sell myself?

I’d just send a regular “thank you” email like this article describes. Don’t try to do more than that :) Good luck.

This was exactly the simple inspiration needed!!!

Hello, I enjoyed the examples and will be using them in future interviews. What if you interview for a panel that uses a point system for hiring. The thank you is pretty much not going to help in that instance correct? I interviewed for a state agency that uses the point system should I still send the thank you email?

I’m not sure, Heather. I haven’t deal with employers using a point system. I can almost guarantee they don’t always hire the person who ends up with the most points, though. A lot goes into a hiring decision.

I had a phone interview with multiple interviewers. I did not ask for all their email addresses. However, when the Hiring Manager was setting up the interview, he sent a common email to all of us. Do you think it will be ok to copy email addresses from that email and send a thank you note?

Will it consider as a negative point in the hiring process, if I send a thank you email after a good couple of days?

Not sure which one to use after having a interview with a Branch Manager?!

I’d use the thank you email that sounds the most like how you’d write/talk. Pick the one that feels the most natural. If you’re in a more traditional industry, like banking/finance, a longer template might be well-received.

Best regards, Biron

Do I need to send a thank you email when I have a pre-screen call interview?

Probably not. I wouldn’t.

If you have an interview and then a second interview, when do you send the thank you? Or do you send a thank you after each interview?

I’d send these “thank you” emails after each interview, assuming you met with somebody new. Basically, the first time you interview with a specific person, it’s nice to thank them for their time.

Thank you very much, great article and very helpful.

What if you don’t have the interviewers direct email address? Do you send it through the HR Manager who set up the email?

I recommend asking every person you meet with for a business card, so you do have their email address. In this case, I’d ask HR for the interviewer’s email and tell them that you’d like to briefly thank them for meeting with you. If the HR person refuses, you can send them the brief thank you email directly and ask them to pass it along for you.

Should you take it personal if no one responds to your thank you email?

No. Don’t overthink it. Keep applying for jobs and focusing on your actions.

No you should not. Sometimes they’re very busy and don’t have time to respond to every thank you email. Good luck

Sample #2 error “I’m looking forwarding to hearing”

Thanks for taking the time to comment and let me know. Fixed it!

Where does it say that?

Thank you for the email and notes examples. I will definitely use them after my interview.

Wish me luck!

Best Regards,

Short thank you note is always in fashion – burning bridges is only counterproductive ;)

Comments are closed.

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• Cover Letters

10+ Cover Letter Examples (+ Different Types & Formatting Guide)

Whether you’re looking to land your first job, changing careers, or simply exploring new job opportunities, writing a great cover letter might seem daunting at first. However, once you read this comprehensive guide and check out our superb cover letter examples, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an expert cover letter crafter.

Cover Letter Examples (By Career Situation and Seniority)

Our resume cover letter examples are just what you need if you’re going to learn how to write one for yourself. Keep in mind that all cover letters have a similar structure that you should follow:

• Contact Info –  Add your name, address, phone number, and email address.
• Greeting – Always start with a professional greeting that addresses the hiring manager by name.
• Introduction – Grab your reader’s attention with a first paragraph in which you introduce yourself and state your intention to apply for the open role.
• Body paragraphs – Write one or two paragraphs that highlight your professional experience, achievements, skills, and education.
• Closing paragraph – Insert your call to action and ask the hiring manager to invite you for an interview. Don’t forget to sign your name at the end.

With this information in mind, let’s check out some of the best cover letter examples!

Cover Letter Example 1: Returning to Work after a Job Gap/Relocation

Dear Mr. Hennessy,  My name is John Young, and I’m applying for a software engineering position at your company. I’m excited about your organization’s mission to change the world, and I’m passionate about your tech stack that includes Scala, Java, React, and Python, all languages I’ve used in the past. 

Recently, I took a year-long hiatus to aid my friend who launched a startup accelerator. During that time, I learned quite a bit about business strategy and going from zero to one hundred while working on a very limited budget. I’m confident that I can turn those skills into new products for your company. 

I’m prepared to get back into the game and restart my career as a software engineer in your beautiful city. I’m positive that I’m the perfect person to lead your middle-out engineering team. I would love to schedule a meeting and discuss this further. 

Our Take: The candidate starts by expressing his excitement about the company’s goals and then seamlessly proceeds to highlight the programming languages that he excels in. This way, he showcased that he is the right person for the job. He then explains that the job gap that appears in his resume was due to working on a personal project that has taught him some valuable new skills.

Cover Letter Example 2: Changing Careers

Dear Ms. Garcia,

Blending a formal background in marketing with proven success in retail sales and customer service roles, I am looking to transition into public relations and believe I would make a great fit for the advertised position of Public Relations Specialist at your company.

Having both used and sold your products, I am already well versed in your brand and both present and past years’ offerings. I have followed with excitement as you launched in European and Asian markets and incorporated an international feel into your product line. I would bring both passion and expertise to championing your company with the press and public.

I am already trained in creating buzz and awareness through social media channels including Twitter and Facebook. When my sales team decided to participate in Walk for a Cure three years ago, we used social media to heighten our sponsorship support and raised more than $20K for the event.

Confident my transferable skills make me a solid candidate for this opening, I respectfully submit my resume for your review and request a meeting to discuss the opportunity further. I will make myself available at your convenience and look forward to your call to arrange a time. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Our Take: This candidate leads off with a strong statement about her career change goal and her fit for the specific position at hand. She uses the rest of the letter to discuss her interest in the company and some of her key transferable skills/experience.

Cover Letter Example 3: New Graduate/Entry Level

Dear Ms. Morris:

I am writing in response to your listing in the Memphis Gazette for a nurse’s aide. Please accept my enclosed resume for consideration.

As a CPR-certified lifeguard and an LPN student at Memphis Community College, I have the formal training necessary for this position. Additionally, with two years of experience in retail sales, I have excellent customer service skills that can translate well to patient relations.

After you have reviewed my resume, I hope to meet with you to discuss how I can be beneficial to your team. I look forward to hearing from you to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience.

Our Take: Nice concise approach for an entry-level candidate. She doesn’t have years of nursing experience to point to, so she highlights her training and how her non-nursing work experience has also helped to prepare her.

Cover Letter Example 4: Professional

Dear Mr. Carter,

As an Accounts Payable & Receivable Specialist , I offer a proven ability to accurately process invoices, payments, reimbursements, and tax reports. I quickly learn and adapt to software changes and updates and help team members resolve issues and problems they are having with data input and processing.

Examples of my accomplishments include:

• Handled biweekly accounts payable processing of checks and ACH payments; reconciled payments made to accounts payable software and addressed any discrepancies that arose.
• Created a spreadsheet that listed bank and routing numbers to expedite the processing of expense reports.
• Uploaded and reconciled monthly phone bills for approximately 200 branches and 4 operational centers; total billing amounts were coded for various departments and branches as required.
• Confident I will prove valuable to your company, I respectfully submit my resume for your review. I would also like to request a personal meeting to discuss your upcoming goals and how I can help you achieve them. I will make myself available at your convenience and look forward to your call. Thank you for your consideration.

Our Take: For an experienced candidate, a bit more detail is expected. This candidate customized the bullet points to specifically communicate his experience with the position responsibilities listed in the job description.

Cover Letter Example 5: Manager

Dear Ms. Nguyen,

As a Human Resources Manager with a strong customer service background, I offer expertise in employee relations, benefits administration, and generalist duties. I have made significant contributions to succession planning and workforce engagement as well as ensuring compliance with employment and labor requirements.

I am also known for my ability to help identify and implement key technology and process improvements. I am well-versed in Six Sigma methods and have led projects which produced significant and sustainable savings. Other examples of my work include:

• Creates positive employee engagement for 2,000+ personnel at Company XYZ via proactive communications, prompt issue resolution, and fair/equitable treatment.
• Led Six Sigma project related to FMLA administration and online orientation programs for Lean Belt training.
• Proved instrumental in the deployment of an E-recruitment system that serviced a Fortune 200 company; defined policies, procedures, and communication planning for the project.

Confident I will make a positive impact on your organization, I respectfully submit my résumé for your review. I would also like to request a personal meeting to discuss your goals for this position and my potential contributions. I will be available at your convenience and look forward to your call to arrange a time. Thank you for your consideration.

Our Take: This cover letter highlights the applicant’s relevant accomplishments as a leader and manager. It goes beyond stating familiarity with the required job duties and emphasizes results in key projects. Remember that you don’t want to copy and paste your whole resume into the cover letter. Think about the key selling points that you want to feature prominently. The goal is to make them excited to learn more about you.

Cover Letter Example 6: Senior-Level Executive

Dear Mr. Jones,

As a Senior-Level Finance & Operations Executive , I offer proven success in maximizing productivity and improving profit margins. My work spans companies and business units at various stages of growth, including start-up, established, and turnaround settings.

Believing profitability requires strong revenue generation and cost controls, I monitor budgets and sales performance closely to identify areas for improvement. I am known for enhancing overall performance through technology upgrades, advanced employee training, and implementation of best practices.

Examples of my work include:

• Drove successful launch of start-up company by hiring a talent team, defining product development plans, and leading go-to-market strategies to achieve $35M+ revenue and 50% margins within two years.
• Managed daily operations of a $150M subsidiary that provided a complete suite of manufacturing solutions in the US and Canada; improved profit margins on overall product line by 10%.
• Proved vital to reorganization leadership that cumulated in a 10% productivity improvement in the sales and service organization and a 20% improvement in support organizations.

As CPA and MBA, I am confident I will prove valuable to your company and respectfully submit my resume for your review. I would also like to request a personal meeting to discuss your upcoming goals and how I can help you achieve them. I will make myself available at your convenience and look forward to your call. Thank you for your consideration.

Our Take: This cover letter nicely distills years of experience into a concise overview that really “sells” achievements most relevant to the specific advertised role. Each bullet presents a compelling high-level overview of a specific position, complete with impressive data points. It’s hard to be this concise when talking about a long career! However, a concise letter is always more effective — make the most exciting information jump out of the letter and grab the recruiter’s attention.

Cover Letter Examples (By Industry)

Teacher cover letter example.

Dear Principal Townson,

With five years of experience in teaching high school and a master’s degree in Chemistry, I believe I am an ideal candidate to fill the science teaching position you have open with the retirement of Stacy Jones. My teaching experience was at John Smith High School in Smallville where I taught all levels of Chemistry and helped host the science fair each year.

I keep up with all developments in teaching and chemistry by reading literature and attending conferences hosted by the American Association of High School Science Instructors. I have also volunteered my time at the community center, tutoring all levels of students in general sciences.

I look forward to working in this community and teaching at Rosewood High School. Please review my attached resume. I will be contacting you next week to schedule an interview. Thank you for your consideration.

Our Take: We love how this cover letter emphasizes the applicant’s relevant qualifications in the first line. This puts emphasis on her ability to do the job. Later, she briefly explains how she has kept current with industry developments and shows passion for her career by mentioning her volunteer work.

Nursing Cover Letter Example

Dear Dr. Manning,

Five years ago, I worked my first shift as an emergency room nurse and have never before left the workplace more fatigued and fulfilled. Today, I am proud to declare that I am still an ER nurse. I love this work partly because I flourish in a fast-paced environment. I also take great pleasure in the opportunity to care for patients every day and be there for their loved ones. This is not easy work, but I can’t see myself doing anything else which is why I am applying for the position of Emergency Room Nursing Lead. I believe that I can be a great asset to your team and that I have a proven track record when it comes to patient care as further shown in my attached resume. 

I have reviewed the qualifications required for this position. I am confident to say that I possess all the skills and experience needed. I have a BSN in nursing and have held a nursing license in good standing for over five years. I have experience working in emergency rooms at several large hospitals, and I fully understand all of the regulations that are in place. I also have the kind of team leadership that you need to ensure that even the busiest nights in the emergency room go as smoothly as possible. 

I would love to sit down with you and discuss my qualifications along with your needs when you are free. Meanwhile, please review the rest of my application package. There you will find all the information you need. 

Our Take: The candidate starts by stating her experience and expresses how difficult a nursing job can be. However, she then turns it around by stating that the rewards are worth the effort. We like her storytelling approach and how she highlights her passion for working with patients and transitions into why her abilities qualify her for the job.

Business Analyst Cover Letter Example

Dear Ms. Sousa,

I am applying for the advertised business analyst job at your company that was posted on your website. I am a data-driven critical thinker with excellent interpersonal skills who holds teamwork in high esteem but can also function independently. I am always searching for fresh ideas and solutions that I can bring to the table to increase the company’s efficiency. 

During my time at XYZ Group, Ltd., my previous employer, I developed and implemented a new program designed to drop needless business expenses. In just one year, the costs were reduced by 15%. Apart from project management, I spearheaded the collection and analytics of business processes and data toward creating more efficient business models. Thanks to my achievements, I was ranked as one of the best employees in the company and received recognition from top stakeholders.

I would be delighted to join your team because I believe that the experience, skills, and vast knowledge that I bring to the table could improve the company’s operational performance. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to speaking to you soon. 

Our Take: Adopting a confident tone in your cover letter is a good way of showing the hiring manager that you have the necessary skills and experience to shine at the job you’re applying to. It’s also great when candidates state their accomplishments and showcase the contributions they can make to a company if hired.

Cover Letters: Basic Rules to Follow

What is a cover letter and how do you write one? It can feel like a chore but it’s actually one of the surefire ways to get an actual job interview.

There are five simple rules to follow if you want to write cover letters that make hiring managers giddy with excitement before meeting you:

1. Your cover letter should be grammatically correct and error-free

Avoid making grammar and formatting mistakes to give your cover letter a professional appearance (regardless of the job you’re applying for). If you’re not a particularly good writer, use a tool such as Grammarly to clean up your text, or kindly ask someone to read and edit your document.

Hiring managers get turned off when noticing mistakes in your cover letter. It sends them the wrong message about your professionalism and attention to detail.

2. The maximum length of your printed cover letter should be one page

If an employer asks for a physical cover letter, make sure it’s only one page long. You’ll want to add essential information highlighting your professional experience and best personality traits. The letter should also be printed on high-quality paper just like your resume.

If you send your cover letter digitally, cut and paste it into the email and attach your resume. Make sure that the letter is easy to read with minimal scrolling. Get to the point and be succinct. 

3. The letter should include examples of your qualifications

You can write a cover letter in paragraph or bulleted formats, but either way, you should include examples of your achievements and credentials. While you want to be brief, you also want to encourage the reader to review your resume for greater detail. The best way to do that is to call out two or three things you have done professionally to catch their attention and make them want to know more about you.

4. Your letter should address a specific person

Whenever possible, do some research and learn a few things about the person who will be reading your cover letter. This is a minor detail and some hiring managers won’t care, but it can distinguish you from your competition all the same. More importantly, don’t send an obviously-generic letter that has not been customized for the company/position.

5. Your letter should end with a call to action

When you close your letter, be sure to ask for a meeting. It is obvious that you want an interview when you submit a cover letter and resume, but job hunting is usually helped along with a proactive approach. Therefore, at every point in the application process, you should seek to move along to the next stage of consideration.

Don’t miss the opportunity to encourage a meeting with the hiring manager when ending your letter. Also, be sure to thank them for their time and consideration.

Do You Need a Cover Letter?

Second chances to make good first impressions in the job search are scarce. Adding a great cover letter at the beginning of your resume gives you the opportunity to “wow” the hiring manager. It also helps you influence their opinion prior to meeting you. Remember that your resume cover letter will be reviewed by a real live person who will be deciding whether or not you are worth their time to interview. It makes the difference between your resume going to the “yes” pile rather than the “file for future opening” (or the real or digital garbage can).

Even though there are times when a recruiter or hiring manager will skip right over your cover letter and focus on the resume, other screeners won’t even look at your resume if the cover letter doesn’t get their attention. Why take a chance? Write a strong cover letter and you’ll know that you’re doing everything possible to get past the gatekeepers and score an interview.

There are plenty of resources on the internet that you can learn from. A simple Google search might take you a long way when looking for a job. But once you find one you really want, you start thinking that you’re not ready to go get it.

A strong cover letter can give you confidence in your application. Send one along with your resume and you’ll know that you might have already stirred a potential employer’s curiosity.

If you’re struggling with writing your cover letter, the samples that you’ve seen so far will supplement Big Interview ’s Resume Curriculum. Everything you need to know about writing persuasive resumes and cover letters can be found there including structure formatting, writing great summary statements, and meaningful ‘Thank You’ notes.

It’s really easy to use. Just log in to your Big Interview account, select ‘My Resume’, and press the ‘Watch Lessons’ button under Resume Curriculum.

You’ll then be taken to the lessons page where you’ll have access to some great advice like how to add high-value details to your letter, how to follow a job application’s requirements, and how to turn them into advantages.

Three Situations When a Good Resume Cover Letter is Critical

1. when you need to include information that should not go into the resume.

A resume is a formal business document with strict rules that must be followed. These rules include not writing in the first person or including personal information like your desire to relocate.

However, there are times when you need to communicate this type of information in order to make the case for your fit for the position.

​​ Example: Your cover letter can be used to communicate your intention to make a transition in your career or move to another city/state. Recruiters receive thousands of unqualified resumes for every position. They will look at your resume and cover letter and immediately trash them if they don’t see a fit — assuming that you are another one of those annoying applicants who applies for every job posted. This is always a challenge for career changers and individuals looking to relocate and a good cover letter can make a big difference.

Example: Your cover letter can also explain away other aspects of your particular career situation that might not be appropriate to include on your resume. For example, if you took some time away from the workforce, but have kept your skills and knowledge up-to-date.

In some job ads, the company will ask for specific information to be included in your cover letter. This technique is used to make screening easier – if someone can’t follow simple application directions, why waste time on an interview? Pay careful attention to the information they request and be sure to address it.

One problematic area is if they ask for salary requirements to be included in your cover letter. Companies make this request to help them rule out individuals with higher salary requirements than they have budgeted for the position, but it can also lock you into a lower pay range than they might offer you otherwise.

However, ignoring the request could disqualify you as well. Ergo, I suggest you research the average salary for the position you are applying to in the state of the opening and include a range slightly above and below that number .

2. When you want to reference a network connection

There is no right way to include in your resume, “Our mutual associate John Smith referred me to this role and says he thinks I will make a great fit for the job opening.” That is a reference line reserved solely for the opening paragraph of a cover letter. There are multiple ways you can mention a network connection or mutual friend in a cover letter, but such a statement has no place in a resume whatsoever.

Note: In professional resume writing, it has become passé to include a list of references on your resume or even the line “references available upon request.” Such information takes up valuable real estate on your resume (which should be 1-2 pages max) and it is best to focus on your achievements and qualifications instead. Besides, the hiring managers know you will give them references when they request them.

Rather than waste space on your resume, prepare a reference sheet with the same header as your resume and give it to the interviewer at the end of your meeting.

This sheet should include the first and last names of your references, their titles and company names, city and state, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses if possible.

You can even be proactive and have letters of recommendation ready to hand to the hiring manager at the end of your meeting, but don’t send them prior to that initial interview.

3. When you want to emphasize why you’re interested in the company

One way to distinguish yourself as a job candidate is to research the company you are interviewing with and talk about things you like or ask questions about the work they have coming up. This demonstrates your interest in their particular organization as opposed to them being just another job ad you responded to in your desperate attempt to find employment.

You can use your cover letter to show that you’ve done your homework and see a strong fit with the organization. Within the second or closing paragraphs of your cover letter, you can mention being interested in the specific work the company does, recent grants they have been awarded, a product they recently released, etc.

Again, this is not appropriate for inclusion on your resume, but adding it to your cover letter can help you stand out from the stack of applications the hiring manager is sorting through on the day your resume passes by him/her.

Cover Letter Format Examples

When choosing a cover letter format, consider what stage your job search is in and how you want hiring managers to perceive you. Cover letters are used for many different reasons and the proper format for each one varies.

The three main types of cover letters are the application cover letter, the prospecting cover letter, and the networking cover letter. You may also send cover letter emails which are an effective and increasingly common way to introduce your resume.

Let’s take an in-depth look at each type of cover letter and see exactly what sets them apart.

Application Cover Letter

This is the most common cover letter used alongside a resume during a job application. It’s geared toward a specific job, and it is designed to highlight the skills and specifications listed in the job posting.

The application cover letter is a vital instrument that gives you the ability to sell yourself as a job candidate. It rounds off your resume and expands on relevant parts of your work history and qualifications.

Application Cover Letter Example

Dear Ms. Osbourne,

I am writing this letter to express my interest in the graphic designer opening as advertised on your website. 

If hired, I believe I can begin making valuable contributions to the design team of your company from day one. I possess a wide range of abilities that combine fresh art and design principles. Furthermore, my knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, HTML, and CSS will allow me to play a pivotal role in the implementation of your design initiatives. 

During my previous job, I led a team of six designers to develop and implement the graphic, layout, and production of communication materials while helping clients cut their costs by an average of 17%. I also oversaw the efficient use of production budgets running from $3,000 – $20,000 and developed a myriad of marketing programs including advertisements, presentations, infographics, newsletters, brochures, and logos that have improved client transactions by an average of 35%.

I look forward to discussing face to face how my skills and strengths can best serve your company. In the meantime, please review the enclosed resume and portfolio. Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Our Take: In the first paragraph , the candidate is quick to mention all the tools they employ to bring value to the company. They use the second paragraph as a canvas on which to paint all of their accomplishments and relevant experiences.

Prospecting Cover Letter

Prospecting cover letters are also known as letters of inquiry or cold call letters. They are useful if you’re looking to apply to a company that isn’t actively hiring or isn’t widely advertising. A prospecting cover letter shows your interest in learning about available positions while at the same time demonstrating eagerness and initiative.

If the company decides to expand its talent pool, sending a prospecting cover letter could put you at the top of the list of desirable candidates.

Prospecting Cover Letter Example

Dear Mr. Patel,

Your company recently came to my attention while reading a very interesting LinkedIn article about how you’re becoming innovators in the industry. I’d very much like to embark on this journey with you. I haven’t seen any open positions on your website, but I’d like to be considered for open positions in the future. I’m interested in pursuing a career in software engineering. The hybrid work model that your company employs couples well with my extensive remote experience. 

I have a bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, and in the following months, I will obtain a certification from the Institute of Certification of Computing Professionals. In addition to my two years as a freelance software engineer, I also have four years of software engineering experience at a publicly traded corporation. 

Please review the resume I’ve attached which contains additional information on my skills and experience relevant to your company. I’d love to discuss any openings you may have coming in the near future. Thank you for taking the time to read this letter.  

Our Take: This candidate took the bull by the horns and went straight to knocking on the company’s door. Even if there is no open position, their chances will grow when a job becomes available.

Networking Cover Letter

Networking is a highly effective method of finding a job. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70% of all jobs are found through networking. It can help you discover job opportunities that might not be advertised yet or it can provide you with a job opportunity that was previously non-existent.

Sending a networking cover letter during your job search is a good idea if you need help from a contact in your industry or career field to introduce you to a potential employer.

Networking Cover Letter Example

I hope this letter finds you well. I’m reaching out about possibly meeting to get some information from you as a top professional in our field. 

As you might remember from our time as co-workers at our previous company, I have always thrived when working in client-facing positions. I’m looking for a new career opportunity in that direction and I wanted to ask for your advice. 

As I’m aware of your experience and your vast area of expertise in working with job seekers on a more personal level, I feel confident that you are the right person to discuss this matter with. 

I know that it’s a busy period for you right now, but I’d appreciate it if you’d let me buy you a drink and pick your brain. I’d also value your thoughts on the matter via reply if we can’t meet. 

Our Take: This candidate knows that a networking cover letter has a casual tone. He uses an informal greeting but still sounds professional throughout. He makes sure to emphasize his former co-worker’s skills and success before asking for a casual meeting and some friendly advice.

Email Cover Letter

This simple, short, and professional cover letter is sent over email when a formal cover letter is not requested in a job posting. It does not follow a specific format but usually includes a greeting and a simple body of text explaining your experience and interest in the company. You should also include a closing with references to any attachments such as your resume, portfolio, samples, or any other necessary documents.

An email cover letter should be a maximum of two paragraphs long and the writing style should be casual but still professional. Remember to create a subject line that includes the position you’re applying for.

Email Cover Letter Example

Subject line: Following Up on Your Content Writer Job Posting on LinkedIn

Dear Mr. McClane, 

This letter is being submitted as an introduction. I am applying for the position of Content Writer with your company. I believe my verbal skills and writing style would be of great value to your team and I can guarantee that if hired I would offer original content with a quick turnaround time. 

I’ve been writing content for over six years and have contributed to several notable blogs in the IT, Finance, and Cryptocurrency industries which I’ve mentioned in my resume. I would like to continue my passionate journey toward advancing my writing career within your company. I am adept at writing SEO (search engine optimization) articles that convert efficiently which would suit your article marketing business model well. I also write highly engaging copy for social media campaigns as seen in my portfolio. 

I read in your job posting that you’d like a candidate who possesses in-depth knowledge of working with keyword research tools. I’m happy to say that I’ve been using Semrush successfully for the last four years. 

Please review my attached resume and portfolio. I’m looking forward to meeting you and discussing my writing skills and history in more detail. 

Our Take: The candidate keeps it short and sweet. They shed light on their relevant skills and then guide the hiring manager towards the resume and portfolio.

Cover Letter Examples – Bottom Line

Adding a cover letter to your resume is the best way to connect with a potential employer from the get-go. Hiring managers get a glimpse of your accomplishments and experience as soon as they open your email or letter.

By analyzing good resume cover letter examples, and understanding their purpose, it will become simpler for you to write one yourself.

Make sure to stick to the structure and include only the best things about your career. Also, remember that your cover letter should only include valuable information that does not repeat itself in your resume.

Stay fresh, always.

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12 Great Cover Letter Examples

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

There comes a time in nearly every job seekers life when you plop yourself down in front of the computer and say to yourself…

“Okay, it’s time to find a couple good cover letter examples I can use to help me start writing my cover letter…” 

So you do a quick Google search, grab the first three cover letter samples you can find, copy a paragraph from each one, and then you’re off to the races feeling like now all you have to do is “click send” a few times and the interviews will simply start rolling in.

Consider this a gentle wake-up call.

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Why Your Cover Letter Is So Important?

In this ultra-competitive job market, it’s just not good enough to “Frankenstein” together a cover letter from the various bits and pieces you find online.

Because hiring managers have “been there, done that.” In other words, they’ve seen it all before.

Not only that, but they want to find candidates that are unique, interesting, and take the time and make the effort to present the best version of themselves.

Your cover letter is your first impression, and therefore, you want to craft the best darn cover letter your hiring manager has ever seen.

So you want to take the time and select the cover letter example that is “tailored” to your situation… in other words, the example cover letter that fits your personality, skills and abilities the best.

Example cover letters are kind of like shoes.

Sure, you might absolutely love that pair of Air Jordan IV’s that are still fresh in the box in your closet from 1989, but you might want to have a second thought before you consider wearing them to a wedding with a tuxedo.

Or perhaps you’ve got a pair of high heels that make you feel like you could walk into a business lunch at the Four Seasons and walk out having sold your company for a billion dollars?

Would you feel the same way if you showed up at the start line for the half marathon you signed up for with those same heels on?

Okay, ridiculous examples aside, I hope you can begin to see my point.

There is not one example cover letter for every situation … no “one-cover-letter-fits-all” solution in 2022.

You have to carefully evaluate your situation and decide which cover letter example is going to suit you the most.

What kind of work are you looking for?

Full-time?  Or part-time?  There’s a cover letter for that.

Are you sending a cover letter in the mail or by email?  There’s a cover letter for that too.

There are all kinds of situations that warrant a slightly different cover letter, and it’s imperative that you figure out which one fits you best.

But don’t worry.  To help, we’ve compiled a list of 12 of the most common cover letter examples and provided you with an example of a cover letter for each one that should give you a leg up on the competition for 2022.

So take a look at the examples and carefully decide which one fits your situation the most.

Before you dive in, a word to the wise…

Don’t just grab the one that fits you best, change the contact information and then start sending it out. As I said before, hiring managers are pretty smart and will be able to tell that you haven’t taken any time to make it your own.

If you want to get job interviews from your cover letter (and at some point, job offers as well!), you need to “tailor” the cover letter to demonstrate your skills , abilities and relevant experience .

12 Common Cover Letter Examples

Without further ado, here are 12 of the best cover letter examples for nearly every situation you could find yourself in along with a brief description of what makes the style of cover letter unique.

1. Cover Letter Sample For Part-Time Work

If you have no intention of applying for a full-time position, it is very important that you let the hiring manager know this in your cover letter.  After all, if you don’t mention this right up front, anything that comes after this will be a total waste of time, and hiring managers value their time more than anything.

On a side note, you should never really be applying for a full-time position when you are only available as a part-time worker.  The company has very specific needs, so don’t think they are going to change the entire nature of the position to accommodate your availability.

2. For A New Graduate

Cover letters for new graduates can often be tricky, because generally speaking, new graduates don’t usually have much experience.

So how can you still put yourself forward as a good candidate without experience?  You want to focus the cover letter around your skills and abilities, the extra-curricular work you’ve accomplished and your knowledge of the company (and passion for the industry) you’re applying to.

3. When You Have Been Referred

There isn’t anything overly difficult about writing a cover letter when you have been referred by someone else, but the most important thing to know is where you should bring up the referral.

Generally speaking, it is always best to mention your referral in the opening paragraph, because it acts as an attention grabber for the hiring manager.

You’re hoping they’ll think to themselves something along the lines of, “Oh, this person was referred by Jim.  I like Jim…he’s a straight shooter. If this person is good enough for Jim, he’s good enough for me. I’m going to bring him in for an interview…”

4. Cold Call Cover Letter Example

The cold call cover letter is appropriate when you are applying to a position that is not necessarily listed on a job board or advertised anywhere.  And for that reason, it can be a little tricky.

You really need to blow the hiring manager away in order for them to grant an unsolicited interview request, so there a re a few key things to remember.  Most importantly, you really have to do your research and demonstrate that you know the company and position inside out.

After that, it really pays to address the letter to a specific person.  Simply writing “To Whom It May Concern” is a great way to have the letter filed under G (for those keeping track that’s the Garbage).

Finally, this letter needs to be all about “pizazz”. Since the reader wasn’t expecting to receive this, you really need to catch their attention and sell yourself, but most importantly, quickly demonstrate how you will add value to their company.

5. For An Email Submission

Please please PLEASE be careful with this one.

Just because a job posting says “submit your cover letter and resume via email” , doesn’t necessarily mean that you can just put these documents in the body of an email.

More often than not, the posting will give further instructions that include attaching your cover letter and resume to an email.  Anyone who doesn’t follow this step has a ZERO chance of being brought in for an interview.

Why?  Because you can’t follow simple directions.

Now, if there is no stipulation and you determine that using the email body to send your cover letter is okay, then general cover letter writing rules apply.

Where you want to focus your energy is on the subject line.  Don’t just write whatever comes to mind as a throwaway and whatever you do, don’t leave it empty!  Be clear and concise about what is included in the email and identify the position you are applying for.

6.  For A Recruiter

Recruiters are no different than hiring managers, in that they are essentially looking for the same things from your cover letters.  What impresses a recruiter the most is when you take the time to tailor your cover letter to a specific posting rather than simply sending them a general letter inquiring about “miscellaneous opportunities”.

7. Someone Changing Careers

Generally speaking, if you are changing careers, you’ll be short on experience.  So similarly to the “New Graduate” cover letter, you’ll want to put the focus on your reasons for making the career change along with your relevant skills and abilities and how your experience in your past career will translate to your new career.

And remember, enthusiasm goes a long way. Hiring managers get excited about applicants that really show a desire to succeed in the role and industry they are applying to.

So make sure you do your research and know the position and industry inside out so that you are easily able to show how enthusiastic you are about the opportunity and how determined you are to get started on your new career path.

8. A Great Example of a Cover Letter For An Academic

The trick with an academic cover letter is to avoid rambling on and on and on about everything you’ve accomplished.  The reality is, you still need to fall within the “one-page rule” (although some institutions will allow for a second page, you better make darn sure that this is the case!), so t he trick is to be clear and concise and highlight your accomplishments without coming across as an encyclopedia.

One other thing to consider is the nature of any research you have done and how you want to convey that in your cover letter.

Quite often people spend too much time talking about what it is they study or plan on studying without ever getting into the “why” of it all.

Be specific about your intentions and don’t assume that the person on the other end of your cover letter is an expert in your field.

9. For An Internship

There really isn’t a huge difference between writing a cover letter for an internship and writing a cover letter for a job opening.  You still need to list your qualifications, skills and abilities.  You still need to explain how you add value to the company.  You still want to sell yourself.

But one thing you want to keep in mind, is even though this internship might be a springboard to YOUR career or education, you don’t want this to be the focus of your cover letter.

The name of the game is still to put the company’s needs ahead of your own.

You’re not their first intern and you won’t be their last, so don’t write your cover letter thinking that their concern is how the internship will help with your placement in your next opportunity.

Add value. Period.  This is what they really want to hear from you in your cover letter.

10. Direct Mail

A direct mail cover letter is similar to a cold call cover letter, the main difference being you are not applying to a single company with a single position in mind.  Instead, you are “blanketing” as many companies you can at once and therefore trying to send out a general cover letter that can work for them all.

Because of this, we don’t recommend this strategy to our students.  It is generally pretty ineffective and a waste of your time or resources.

There is rarely a time when “tailoring” your resume to a specific company and position is not the most effective strategy.  However, if you are really short on time (and possibly ambition), here is an example of a direct mail cover letter you can reference.

11. Responding To an Advertisement

The only really distinguishing feature of this type of cover letter is that the opening paragraph generally includes a statement such as “I’m responding to your advertisement I saw in the…”

The rest of the cover letter generally follows the principles of other successful cover letters.  However, if you find yourself going through the classifieds in your local newspaper and simply sending off cover letters to whomever has an ad posted, do make sure that you do some research on the company before you send out your cover letter.

Sending one cover letter out for multiple advertisements is a good way to ensure that you won’t be getting too many interviews in the coming days or weeks.

12. When You’re Unemployed

The worst thing you can do when writing an cover letter after you’ve been unemployed for some time is to lie.

Why?  Because eventually, the lies you tell in the cover letter will come home to roost at some point in the interview process, meaning you’ll just end up having wasted everyone’s time.

Having said that, if there are some less-than-attractive reasons for your unemployment, don’t make those reasons the focus of your cover letter. You want to keep it positive.

It’s okay to admit fault in certain situations if you can show that you’ve have learned from the tough times and have changed for the better as a result of these struggles.

Transition to focusing on your skills and abilities, and more importantly, your passion and desire for re-entering the workforce. If you have experience from your past that will clearly add value to this new position, than don’t be afraid to clearly demonstrate the connection.

And if you spent your time being unemployed trying to better yourself (for example, taking a class or volunteering), then shift the focus to that.

Putting It All Together

So there you have 12 good cover letter examples for 2022 that will help you get started on crafting a winning cover letter.

Remember that the most important thing for you to accomplish with your cover letter is to demonstrate how you add value to the company you are applying to, and you want to make sure this never gets lost when you get caught up in trying to sell yourself.

And remember, you’re not on your own! Once you’ve chosen your cover letter example you can head over to How to Write a Cover Letter 101 and get great tips on how to right all parts of your cover letter.

Best of luck to you!

FREE : "Perfect Cover Letter" PDF CHEAT SHEET

Get our handy "Perfect Cover Letter" cheat sheet.

In it you'll get a step-by-step process that will let you craft the perfect cover letter.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE CHEAT SHEET

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out

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3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out was originally published on Vault .

It's a myth that high quality job openings are few and far between thanks to Covid. The truth is, despite the economic uncertainty created by the pandemic, there are many great openings out there. And to get them—or, at least, have a chance at getting them—you first need to capture the attention of hiring managers. And the best way to do that is to write compelling cover letters. So here are the three keys to writing cover letters that stand out.

1. Convey your personality, quirks and all.

Showcasing your uniqueness and allowing your personality to shine through in your cover letters can magnetize hiring managers, sending instant messages that you might be the candidate they're looking for. The secret to achieving this is to use specific details, rather than vague ones.

For example, the following was recently used by an applicant when applying for a Head of Marketing position (shortly after sending this, the candidate was interviewed and then hired):

“I have a passion for data and analytics. I enjoy spending (a little too much time) geeking out in Google analytics, advertising platforms, and BI tools (Tableau and Looker), digging deep into data to identify opportunities that can be leveraged to drive growth and inform testing strategies for campaigns, websites, and products.”

Now compare the above to the below (which has less personality and fewer details, and thus would likely not stand out):

“I am well versed in data analytics, and I am experienced with Google analytics, BI Tools, and other advertising platforms. I have a proven ability to inform testing strategies for campaigns for websites and products.”

Here's another example of cover letter phrasing that captures the attention of hiring managers:

“I'm rather obsessed with personal organization. I read three organizational blogs on my own time, and I've organized my desktop folders into color-coded sub-categories. My friends laugh at me for saying things like, ‘An organized space equals an organized mind,' but I don't like wasting time looking for things.” 

Now compare that to this less specific phrasing:

“I have a proven track record of being organized, and I have a passion for it. I have a proven knack for keeping files organized on an ongoing basis, and I have put organizational processes and procedures in place for my department. The bottom line is organization is always my highest priority.” 

2. Prove your level of dedication to your profession.

Another way to stand out is to illustrate specific things about your dedication to your field. In the following example, a candidate showcases her dedication to her profession, proves that she spends a lot of time thinking about driving results in her field, and shows that she takes concrete steps in order to be a high quality contributor in her field. All of which goes a long way when it comes time for hiring managers to decide which candidates to interview. 

“I believe that a good marketing strategy requires seeking out the latest trends and staying one step ahead of the competition. I've attended the Traction conference two years in a row and completed the 2018 Reforge Growth Series, a highly credible and exclusive course that only accepts 10 percent of applicants and is built by leaders from Hubspot, Uber, and other firms. Through these professional developments, I've opened my mind to uncommon marketing methods, and I pride myself on thinking outside the box to develop strategies that create sustainable, low-cost customer acquisition loops that lead to long-term positive ROI.” 

Now compare the above to the below, which is less detailed and includes less specific phrasing:

“I have the skills and requirements for this position, and I believe I would complete every task asked of me to the highest standard expected. My background and experience make me an excellent fit for this position for many reasons. I am very interested in marketing, and I think I would be a great asset to the team.”

3. Include concrete, quantitative results that show your value.

In any written application, you'll need to showcase some form of quantitative results to stand out. Note that even if you don't have a lot of shiny results in your career yet (or even any relevant experience—which is okay!), you can still use words to capture someone's attention with what you have done. And if you do have a record of achieving quantifiable results, then by all means include them, like in the below:

“I developed several Google ad campaigns that were worth more than $500,000 and that resulted in high-level customers. Also, through testing and optimization, I increased newsletter sign-ups by more than 200 percent.”

Now compare that to this bland sentence:

“I have experience in Google ad campaigns, as well as experience in testing and optimization.”

A final note

When trying to convey your personality, get across your dedication, or communicate your value, there's a big difference between saying you're a good fit for the job and actually showing it.

So, when writing your cover letters, try to hold these words in mind: I know you (the hiring managers) don't know me, so let me show you exactly why I'm completely invested, committed, and passionate about doing this specific type of work. And let me show you the specific reasons why hiring me, over all other candidates, would be beneficial to you.

If you hold all this in mind, the right details and words will flow right out of you—and into your cover letters.

Natalie Fisher is best known for helping professionals land their ideal roles and achieve explosive salary growth (even with little experience). If you want to dive deeper on the topic of your career mindset and become a person who knows exactly how to land their dream job offer, listen to her on the podcast Get a Six Figure Job You Love .