The How & Why of a Thank You Email

Follow-up emails are a crucial first step in building a relationship with the recruiter or company representative you met with during a career event or interview. This valuable connection is not one you want to lose, even if the company does not currently have any immediate roles for you. 

When sending a follow-up email, be sure to send it within 24 hours of the meeting and include:

• Gratitude – thank them for their time
• Reminder – jog their memory: where did you connect, was there something salient about the conversation
• Interest – reiterate your interest in the organization & role(s)
• Plug – why you are a good fit for the company/role & what makes you stand out (you can also attach your resume)

Thank you emails 1) show professionalism, 2) keep you fresh in a recruiter’s mind, and 3) open a communication channel between you and the recruiter. Each of these can set you apart as a candidate in their applicant pool. 

TIP: Make your life easier and ask for contact information at the end of your conversation or interview.