Following up after a job interview can be as important as the interview itself. Most people know that sending a thank you note is a good idea, but for various reasons, many neglects to do so. This is a missed opportunity to show your potential employer that you are considerate, respectful, and enthusiastic about the job. Good manners are often a deal breaker when it comes to getting hired, especially when it comes to job interviews in the hospitality industry!
Thank you notes don’t have to be too formal or fancy. You can keep it short—but not too short. If you send a note that just says thank you, you win points for manners, but lose a chance to increase your odds of getting the job. There are a few different things you can mention in order to make a great impression. Here are the top six must-include items for a restaurant or hospitality job interview thank-you note.
1. Personalize it.
Use the interviewer’s name and firmly state the date of the meeting and the job title you discussed (i.e. “Dear Mr. [insert interview’s name]: Thank you so much for meeting with me yesterday [insert date] to discuss the position of Restaurant Manager”). This will jog the employer’s memory, and make sure the interviewer knows which job you want just in case he or she is conducting interviews for multiple positions.
2. Show gratitude.
Don’t jump right into a list of reasons why you are perfect for the job. Instead, begin by saying that you were happy to meet the interviewer and appreciated the chance to hear more about the company. Basically, you want to thank the employer for his or her time at the job interview. This will grab the interviewer’s attention and make the person realize that you are a warm and considerate person.
3. Confirm your interest.
Next, you’ll want to make it abundantly clear that you liked what you learned about the job and are very interested in the job position. You don’t want to be pushy, but it’s great to say something that conveys your enthusiasm so that the interviewer sees you as a candidate who will bring good energy and excitement to the company. Mention something specific that you are excited about (i.e. “I really love the idea of working at a four-star hotel and am confident my skill and expertise will help maintain the hotel’s excellent reputation”).
4. Show you were listening.
Don’t be afraid to get specific. You don’t want to recount the entire conversation, but it’s great to mention one or two specific things that came up in the interview, especially things that were relevant to the job position you interviewed for.
5. Point out some of your strengths.
Don’t be afraid to add in a little self-promotion! Employers want their prospective hires to be confident and assertive. This is a great place to explain a few of your skills and share how your background and relevant experience will help you succeed in the job. Mention other work you have done in the hospitality industry. You don’t want to go into too much detail here, but reminding the interviewer why you are a strong and qualified candidate can go a long way.
6. Suggest a follow-up.
End on a positive note by saying thank you again, and then, depending on how you left it in the interview, mention that you are available to talk again in person or over the phone in order to answer any questions the interviewer might have. Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to landing the perfect job at a restaurant or hotel!