I have an ally!  Danielle Aveta wrote in PR News Online “Writing a thank you note after a job interview isn’t an option; it is a requirement. And in PR, a well-written thank you note is crucial—it’s another test of your communication skills.”

Thank YOU, Danielle.  When I speak on job seeking and point out that few people use this excellent follow-up tool the audience acts shocked.  Yet I’ve been interviewing professional communicators for assignments through PRofessional Solutions for almost 20 years and receive thank-you notes from no more than 25 percent, across ages and experience levels.

Some of Ms. Aveta’s valuable tips:

• Be sure to send a thank you to everyone you met with during the interview process, and personalize them.
• Include something that picks up on the interview conversation or conveys a point you didn’t get to express in the interview.
• Write the thank you within 24-48 hours after meeting, but take enough time to craft a thoughtful communication rather than send a two-line email immediately.
• The thank you shows you were paying attention, are interested and a polished professional.