Thank you notes - Handwritten & Email

You didn't receive anything monetary, or any sort of gift, and you didn't have a large event to warrant a Thank You note, so why would you send one out? Well, someone gave you your time, and you should let them know that you appreciate them taking the time to speak to you, but when do you write one? How do you write a professional one? Would an email suffice? Here are all of your answers...

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When To write a thank you note

While it really is up to you whether you think it would be appropriate to send a thank you email or note, here are some instances where you may want to write one:

• After speaking to someone at a career fair
• After an interview (any round)
• After a job shadow
• After receiving a letter of recommendation

​Overall, whether you write a thank you note or not is somewhat dependant on the relationship you want to maintain with the other party. They keep your name in the other person's head, and they are more likely to remember who you are if you should get in contact with them again.

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Letter vs email

You've now decided that it is worth it to send a thank you to someone who took the time to do something for you, whether it be a task or taking the time to meet with you. However, what is better: an email, or a hand-written note?

EMAIL

An email is typically more professional, especially if you don't already have a relationship with the person you are addressing.

​They should be send within a few days of meeting with someone, and the tone of the email will differ, depending ​on the context and the relationship. 

HAND-WRITTEN

Hand-written notes are wonderful if you meet someone at a career fair, since they establish a good relationship before an interview is even scheduled.

​They are also useful when a relationship with someone is already established.

They should be written within a day or two within meeting the recipient, so then they can receive their letter as quickly as possible.

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"Professional Thank You Letter Examples and Writing Tips" | Alison Doyle | the balance careers

"How to Write a Business Thank You Letter" Indeed

"How to Write a Thank You Note for a Recommendation Letter" | Indeed

"The Perfect Template to Write a Thank You Email After an Interview (Plus, Samples!) | Alex Cavoulacos | Themuse