While communication has changed over the years through technology, some things never change and that’s our perception of how valued we feel when we receive something from someone that we know took time and effort. That’s why handwritten letters are so effective as ‘Thank Yous’ after you’ve been interviewed by someone. Sure, an email is great. But I consider a thank you email as table stakes now after I’ve interviewed someone. In fact I’m now surprised if I don’t receive a thank you email. But guess how many people have ever sent me an actual handwritten card after an interview? Less than 10 out of roughly 1,000 interviewees have gone to the effort – and every time I have really appreciated it. After al, the only things I get in the mail now are bills and statements. A nice card is always welcome. Having said that, here are 4 must do's for after an interview, especially an informational interview:

​Everyone gets nervous, especially before an important job or informational interview. Some people get sweaty palms as a result - a perfectly normal reaction to being nervous, but perfectly awful for delivering that first handshake to your potential future employer. So what can you do to make sure you’ve got a great handshake even if you’re super nervous?
 
When I get nervous I get super sweaty palms. And I’m sure that, as a result of my common affliction, I have given plenty of folks the ol’ wet fish handshake at some point - but never to a potential employer because I use one of these two tricks every time and it always saves me.

​One of the key pieces of advice you usually get in business is to mimic your audience because it ultimately makes you more relatable. This is pretty sound advice in general and it has served me well with customers over the years. I dress like them, talk like them and even try and adopt their sense of humor when working with them. It can be hugely beneficial to your relationship. In fact it’s kind of in our nature to mimic those we want to be around.

I often get asked what people should bring to an interview – especially an informational interview. It’s always good to have a recent copy of your resume. Some people think having some work examples is important too. But what I really notice is when someone brings a notepad and pen – and actually uses it. You might think I’m kidding, but I would say that only about 20% of the people I interview ever show up with a notepad and pen. And of those 20% only about 5% ever take decent notes of our conversation. So even just bringing a notepad and pen can separate you from 80% of your competition.