You’re mom was right. Thank you notes are important. As a recruiter, I am surprised by how few candidates take the time to write a quick note after an interview when they are clearly interested in the job. I know it sounds like a chore, but it creates more good karma than you realize. In fact, I have one hiring manager who will favor candidates that mail hand written thank you notes. In his mind it shows professionalism and keen interest in the position not to mention it’s just polite. And frankly, I have to agree. 

You don’t have to go as far as mailing an old fashioned thank you note. You can simply craft a quick email and send it to the folks you met with during your interview. I’m sure as a good candidate, you remembered to grab business cards from each interviewer so you are fully prepared with the right contact info. If not, you have the email address of your recruiter and can send her a quick note to request the needed contact info. Don’t forget the recruiter is your biggest internal advocate who will walk thru the entire hiring process with you.

Have I convinced you yet? If not there is still one more important reason that’s worth mentioning in our current economic times. A thank you note will provide you an edge and allow you to stand out from the crowd. I’m amazed more candidates don’t do it for this simple fact alone. It’s a tough job market and you should use every advantage you can.

So why not listen to your mom and write that short courtesy note for the interview you went to last week. You’ll be thankful you did.