Getting rejected after an interview can be discouraging, but it’s important to maintain a professional attitude and follow up with a thank you email. Here’s how to write a thank you email for unsuccessful interview.
How to Write a Thank You Email for Unsuccessful Interview
When writing a thank you email for an unsuccessful interview, keep it brief and professional. Here’s an explanation of what to include:
Introduction
Begin with a brief thank you and acknowledgment of the interview. Mention that you appreciate the opportunity to interview for the position, and thank the interviewer for their time and the experience.
Explanation
Next, briefly explain that you understand they have decided to go in a different direction, and that you appreciate being considered for the role. It’s essential to remain polite and gracious, even if you’re disappointed.
Examples
Examples are helpful for inspiration and guidance when drafting a thank you email for an unsuccessful interview. You can find various examples online and edit them as needed to fit your unique situation and personality.
6 Tips for Writing a Thank You Email for Unsuccessful Interview
Here are six tips for writing a thank you email for an unsuccessful interview:
1. Personalize the greeting.
Address the interviewer by name and use a professional greeting, such as “Dear Mr. Smith.” Avoid using a generic greeting like “To Whom It May Concern.”
2. Keep it concise.
Be brief and to the point. Thank the interviewer for their time, acknowledge their decision, and express your appreciation.
3. Use professional language.
Keep the tone polite and professional. Avoid using slang, abbreviations, or emoticons.
4. Express your continued interest.
If you’re still interested in working for the company or in another role, express your continued interest in the organization and ask them to keep you in mind for future opportunities.
5. Proofread before sending.
Check for spelling and grammar errors before sending the email. Use proper punctuation and capitalization.
6. Send it promptly.
Send the thank you email within 24 hours of the interview to show your gratitude and professionalism.
7 Examples of Thank You Email for Unsuccessful Interview
Thank You Email for Unsuccessful Interview – General
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me and share information about [Company] and the [Position] role. While I am disappointed that I was not chosen to move forward in the hiring process, I appreciate having the opportunity to learn more about your organization and the role.
If any other opportunities arise in the future, I would be grateful if you could keep me in mind.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Thank You Email for Unsuccessful Interview – COVID-19
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to interview me for the [Position] position at [Company]. I appreciate your flexibility and understanding in conducting the interview remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
While I am disappointed that I was not selected to move forward in the hiring process, I respect your decision and appreciate the opportunity to learn more about [Company].
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Thank You Email for Unsuccessful Interview – Internal Candidate
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for considering me for the [Position] role at [Company]. Although I am disappointed that I was not selected for the position, I appreciate the opportunity to interview and learn more about the hiring process.
I am still interested in pursuing career opportunities at [Company], and I hope to work together in the future. Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Thank You Email for Unsuccessful Interview – Entry Level Position
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for inviting me to interview for the [Position] role at [Company]. While I am disappointed that I was not selected for the position, I appreciate the opportunity to learn more about your organization and the hiring process.
I am still interested in pursuing a career at [Company], and I hope to have the opportunity to work together in the future. Thank you again for your consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Thank You Email for Unsuccessful Interview – Executive Role
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for interviewing me for the [Position] position at [Company]. While I am disappointed that I was not selected to move forward in the hiring process, I appreciate the opportunity to learn more about your organization and the role.
I understand that this role is critical to the success of [Company], and I wish you all the best in finding the right fit. If any other opportunities arise in the future, I would be grateful if you could keep me in mind.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Thank You Email for Unsuccessful Interview – Sales Position
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me and discuss the [Position] role at [Company]. While I am disappointed that I was not selected for the position, I appreciate the opportunity to learn more about your organization and the sales process.
I am still interested in pursuing a career in sales, and I believe that [Company] is a great place to achieve my career goals. If any other opportunities arise in the future, I would be grateful if you could keep me in mind.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Thank You Email for Unsuccessful Interview – Marketing Position
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for inviting me to interview for the [Position] role at [Company]. While I am disappointed that I was not selected for the position, I appreciate the opportunity to learn more about your organization and the marketing process.
I am still interested in pursuing a career in marketing, and I believe that [Company] is an excellent place to achieve my career goals. If any other opportunities arise in the future, I would be grateful if you could keep me in mind.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How soon should I send a thank you email after an unsuccessful interview?
The sooner, the better. Ideally, you should send a thank you email within 24 hours of the interview to show your appreciation and professionalism.
Should I send a thank you email even if I’m not interested in the job anymore?
Yes, it’s always a good idea to show gratitude and professionalism, regardless of your decision. You never know when you might cross paths with the interviewer or company again in the future.
Should I include my resume in the thank you email?
No, you should not include your resume in the thank you email. The purpose of the email is to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the company, not to provide additional application materials.
What should I do if I don’t hear back after sending a thank you email?
If you don’t receive a response after sending a thank you email, it’s best to wait a week or two before following up with a polite email. Keep in mind that the hiring process can take time, and the company may still be considering their options.
Can I ask for feedback in my thank you email?
Yes, you can ask for feedback in your thank you email, but keep in mind that the interviewer may not have the time or resources to provide detailed feedback. If you do ask for feedback, be respectful and grateful for any assistance they can offer.
What should I do if I receive negative feedback in response to my thank you email?
If you receive negative feedback, take it as an opportunity to learn and improve for the future. Thank the interviewer for their honesty and feedback, and use their comments to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses as a candidate.
Conclusion
Writing a thank you email for an unsuccessful interview can help you leave a positive impression on the interviewer and maintain a professional attitude. By following these tips and using the examples provided, you can craft a thank you email that expresses your appreciation and reiterates your interest in the company.