Relationship-building is the key to launching a successful career, even if you don’t know yet where exactly you’re headed. If you’ve recently interviewed with a company you hope to work for someday, writing them a thank-you note after an informational interview is an excellent idea.
While it may have been a very pleasant and fruitful conversation, it doesn’t play well to assume that the other person thinks you’ll be a great addition to their team. However, there is a way for you to ensure that you somehow stay top of mind when they do start hiring. Sending a follow-up thank you email after a discovery call strengthens rapport and makes your name memorable.
So how do you write an unforgettable thank you note for an informational interview? We’ve looked at some tried-and-tested examples that could work for you, with only a few tweaks where needed.
But, first, let’s talk about the essential elements of post-interview thank you notes.
Elements of a Thank You Note After an Informational Interview
There are several ways to say “thank you” to the person who agreed to an informational interview with you, but putting it in writing is proven effective and unforgettable. Consider these tips to guide you in crafting your thank you email.
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Express your appreciation within the first few sentences. [Shows that you are thankful for their time and shared knowledge]
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Use a business format. [Shows that you are a professional]
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Reiterate your interest in a particular topic discussed during the interview. [Shows that you know how to listen]
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Offer your assistance or declare your plans to upskill. [Shows your willingness to help and improve where needed]
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Provide your contact information in case they want to reach out in the future. [Shows that you are open and ready to communicate]
Even if the other person is your friend, it’s always a good idea to send a professional thank you letter. Not only would this define your level of professionalism, but informational interview thank you emails also tend to be archived or later shared with hiring personnel and company decision-makers. You want yours to be as flawless as possible.
Informational Interview Thank You Email Samples
Writing a thank you note for an informational interview is pretty easy and straightforward. However, there is a fine line between being appreciative and dramatic. Similar to writing a grad school interview thank you letter, many people make the mistake of being too thankful in writing that instead of building rapport, you invite annoyance.
Check out these proven thank you email templates to stay on the safe side.
Example 1: Concise Thank You Email
Subject: Your Name – Thank You
[Date]
Receiver’s Name, Designation
Company
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:
It was a pleasure speaking with you earlier today. I am truly grateful that you took the time out of your busy schedule to share your story with me and offer valuable insight about entering the YYYY field.
I will certainly follow your recommendations to XXXX and ZZZZ. I look forward to connecting with you again.
Warmest regards,
Your Name
Your Contact Number
Your Email Address
Example 2: Thank You Email Expressing Intentions to Upskill
Subject: Your Name – Thank You
[Date]
Receiver’s Name, Designation
Company
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. Your insights were truly valuable and have confirmed my decision to gain more work experience in the field before moving on to graduate school.
I will check the websites you suggested for leads regularly and have already reached out to XYZ professional organization regarding membership.
I will follow up in the near future to update you on my progress. Once again, thank you for your guidance.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Your Contact Number
Your Email Address
Example 3: Detailed Thank You Email with an Offer of Assistance
Subject: Your Name – Thank You
[Date]
Receiver’s Name, Designation
Company
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:
I am sending this email to express my appreciation for taking the time to speak with me today. I am grateful for your patience and eagerness to answer all my queries and provide information about your company and team. I especially appreciate you giving me the tips necessary to XXX.
I also wanted to thank you specifically for discussing onboarding and training methods for new team members, and I hope to continue our discussion again sometime in the future. The standards you mentioned will be valuable resources as I develop my career.
Since I mentioned that I have experience with handling YYY, I would like to offer my services should COMPANY ever need additional hands. You may contact me anytime. I look forward to future engagement with you.
Once again, thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Your Contact Number
Your Email Address
The Value of Follow-up Thank You Letters for Informational Interviews
Whether or not you feel that your conversation will lead to a job lead or employment offer, you should still send a thank you note after an informational interview. This is basic interview etiquette and helps to keep your line of communication open and connection active. As you advance in your career, forging valuable contacts is key to advancing to the next phase. Writing that email will take some minutes off your time, but the relationship you will build as a result of that note will be priceless.
Ready to be at the top of your game? InterviewFocus can help improve your job interview skills through online coaching. Record a mock interview with us, and we’ll give you comprehensive feedback on your answers.
