Life@Work: Job Interview Thank-You Notes — Handwritten or Emailed?

October 10, 2018 JCS Career Center

Writing implements (Photo courtesy Flickr)

You just left your job interview and feel it went pretty well. The first thing on your agenda should be to write a thank-you note.

No surprise there. Everyone wants an employee with good manners.

But here’s the question — handwritten note or emailed thank-you?

Which is better?

While there are plenty of people who prefer the traditional handwritten thank-you because they appreciate someone taking the time to sit down and put pen to paper, email is fine these days as an alternative.

Consider this:

Most application processes are conducted via computer, so receiving an email wouldn’t be a surprise following an electronic resume and cover letter;
An email allows you to include links or attachments to your work, giving the employer another chance to see what you can do for their company;
“Snail mail” can take a few days to get your message where it needs to go. Email is immediate, and that’s extremely helpful if the employer is making a quick decision.

Of course, the same rules apply whether you are writing or emailing your thank-you note. Use good grammar, be sure to proofread and send a thank-you to each person involved in the interviewing process.

Wondering if your resume will stand out from the crowd? Come to the JCS Career Center free Resume Review on Tuesday, Oct. 9 from 4-6 p.m. at the Pikesville branch of the Baltimore County Public Library, 1301 Reisterstown Road. Bring in your resume for a free consultation with a JCS career coach. No appointment is necessary.

The JCS Career Center offers comprehensive employment assistance that helps job seekers of all abilities and skill levels find and maintain employment. Services include career coaching, career assessments, resume and cover letter services, interview preparation, job readiness training, vocational rehabilitation and job placement assistance.

For information, call 410-466-9200 or visit jcsbaltimore.org.