Post-Interview Etiquette?

[BruiserQueen]

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Hello there,

I've had a few interviews over the past week for doctoral programs- and I was wondering if sending a "thank you" note to the interviewer is considered to be in good taste.

Obviously, I do not want to come across as pandering- however, I do think it could be a time to show gratitude and appreciation.

Please note: I am aware that sending a "thank you" letter will probably not make a bit of difference regarding acceptance- but I am still just curious to hear what other people have to say.

Thank you!

 

[Fewmasses]

Hello there,

I've had a few interviews over the past week for doctoral programs- and I was wondering if sending a "thank you" note to the interviewer is considered to be in good taste.

Obviously, I do not want to come across as pandering- however, I do think it could be a time to show gratitude and appreciation.

Please note: I am aware that sending a "thank you" letter will probably not make a bit of difference regarding acceptance- but I am still just curious to hear what other people have to say.

Thank you!

Just my .02 cents, but I have been taught to always, always, always send a thank you note almost immediately after the interview. I've also learned through the years (from many interviews for jobs, programs, practicums, etc.) that a note containing a brief and unique talking point from your interview, while also expressing gratitude without seeming overly thankful is key. Additionally, I've had a lot of compliments from a hand-written note. Apparently, handwriting is a lost art. Whether or not it makes a difference is up for debate, but I can guarantee you that more than 50% of interviewees haven't even thought about it. When whoever it's addressed to sees that you actually took some time and effort to express your gratitude, they'll at least remember you, which is probably half the battle when inundated with a 100 applicants who differ slightly on things like GRE and GPA.

 

[Member1928]

I would strongly encourage a hand-written thank you card following interviews. Keep it simple and send it right away.

 

[T_Money]

If you truly do not think that it will make a difference in acceptance, then a hand-written note is the way to go. As others have said, it is a classy and personal touch that will set you apart.

However, if you want to send a note for reasons other than pure gratitude, I recommend email. Many departments/admissions committees meet within days of the interview, so snail mail wouldn't be a practical option if you want to make a final impression before decisions are made.

You are a better person than I if you send notes just to express thanks! I'm stuck in the horrible mindset of seeing every part of this process as a game. Good luck with everything!

 

[psychrat]

I think they are important. A professor in my program was once on the fence and could not decide between two applicants and he said only 1 sent a thank you email, so he accepted that one bc he viewed them as more interested.

 

[FLpsychstudent]

I would definitely send thank yous to the PI and the student who hosted you (if applicable). Email is fine. This year all the applicants to our lab sent thank yous to everyone in our lab! So not sure if that is the new thing to do, but it is definitely always appreciated to get a thank you and to have people express their interest.

 

[xXIDaShizIXx]

I agree with everyone on here. Always verbally thank and at the very least send an email thanking them and point out things you liked about the program, site, opportunities, etc.