For years, jobseekers have been advised that sending a post-interview thank-you note is essential, a sign of professionalism that can tip the scales in their favour. But in today\u2019s hiring market, that advice isn\u2019t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your level of seniority, the role you\u2019re applying for, and even the company, a thank-you note might not always be appropriate.<\/p>\n
So, before you hit \u201csend\u201d, it\u2019s worth pausing to consider whether you should follow up with your potential new employer post-interview.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re interviewing for a business support role, such as a PA, or a client-facing role, a brief, thoughtful thank-you note can solidify professionalism and good communication. These are skills important to the role that you\u2019re interviewing for, which help to further solidify your fit. It shows that you value the interviewer\u2019s time, and it can leave a positive impression.<\/p>\n
As Rebecca Siciliano, Tiger Recruitment\u2019s Managing Director, says, \u201cIt’s definitely a good thing to do. I\u2019d recommend it 100% of the time if you\u2019ve applied directly to a role and have the contact details of the scheduler<\/span>. It\u2019s an opportunity to reiterate any responses you feel you could have addressed better in the interview, and it shows genuine interest.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n You could use the thank-you note to briefly highlight why the position excites you, or to reflect on a topic discussed that aligns with your experience. These small touches often complement other strong interview techniques that demonstrate professionalism and enthusiasm. This can be particularly effective in competitive hiring processes, where small details can distinguish one strong candidate from another. A thank-you email sent within 24 hours keeps you fresh in the interviewer\u2019s memory and shows that you are proactive, engaged and genuinely interested in the role.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re interviewing for a role at a senior or executive level, a thank-you note is unlikely to influence the hiring decision. At this level, interviews are focused on strategic alignment, leadership capability, and long-term value, rather than etiquette or follow-up gestures.<\/p>\n It may also be inappropriate to reach out directly. For example, if your interview process is being managed entirely through a recruiter, it\u2019s best to let them handle any communication. Contacting the hiring manager directly can appear as though you\u2019re bypassing established channels or disregarding the process. Similarly, avoid the temptation to reach out on LinkedIn.<\/p>\n As Angela Lopes, Director and Head of the City Office, says, \u201cI don\u2019t think candidates should reach out to hiring managers unless they have shared their contact details and invited them to do so. Otherwise, it can create an awkward situation if the positive feedback isn\u2019t mutual.”<\/em><\/p>\n Additionally, if you\u2019re not working with a recruiter and the company has made it clear that the next steps will be taken through HR or your recruitment consultant, it\u2019s advisable to hold off on sending a message directly without speaking to your direct contact first.<\/p>\n Every company and hiring process has different expectations. That\u2019s why your recruiter is your best guide. They work very closely with the hiring manager and understand their preferences. They can advise whether a thank-you note is appropriate, when to send it and what tone to take.<\/p>\n In some cases, your recruiter may even offer to pass along your appreciation directly, which can be a more suitable approach for some employers or senior-level positions.<\/p>\n Ultimately, there\u2019s no universal rule. A thank-you note should never feel like a box-ticking exercise, but rather a genuine continuation of professional conversation.<\/p>\n If it adds value, it\u2019s worth considering. But if it risks coming across as forced, it may be better to hold back. When in doubt, ask your recruiter; they\u2019ll know the best approach for each situation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" For years, jobseekers have been advised that sending a post-interview thank-you note is essential, a sign of professionalism that can tip the scales in their favour. But in today\u2019s hiring market, that advice isn\u2019t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your level of seniority, the role you\u2019re applying for, and even the company, a thank-you note might not<\/p>\nWhen It Might Not Be Necessary<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Ask Your Recruiter First<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Summary<\/strong><\/h2>\n