Thank You Notes

When to send a Thank You Note
A Thank You Note Should...

Occasions to Send Thank You Notes

  • After an event, i.e., a party or dinner meeting.
  • To follow up with a new networking contact.
  • After an interview (informational or otherwise).
  • After a job decision has been made (whether you are offered the job or rejected).
  • In gratitude for someone helping you in some way, including serving as a reference.

Thank You Notes Should
  • Be sent within 24 hours after the event.
  • Be brief and genuine yet very professional. Never use slang or other language that you might include in a letter to a friend or family member.
  • Be personalized. It should be addressed to a specific person and should contain specific details about the event attended or assistance provided.
  • Be proofread and free from mistakes and misspellings (especially of people’s names and titles).
  • Be printed on high-quality paper or be handwritten on a simple note card.
  • Sometimes a situation will allow you to send a thank you note by email. The note should be as formal as if you were sending it through the mail.
  • Never use informal language or emoticons.