Is it important to send a thank you email or letter after a face-to-face or telephone interview ?

Yes, it is important. e-mail should go out as soon as you can. Also, follow up with a hand written note to arrive in less than a week.

It is VERY important to do so. I think of it as a signature so to speak. It helps leave a lasting impression on the interviewer as well.

Sending a hand written note is the best advice I would give to anyone. Yes, it should be mailed the day after the interview occurred.

Another new way that is catching on is a 90 second video of yourself thanking the team. Of course, that would be sent via email. I've seen that utilized once in the past month.

Both are great options!! Hooah

This is something that has never crossed my mind. I am going to give it a try, will let you know how it goes.

I feel it is important and respectful.

I'm not there yet, but in the interviews I've done, I've made it a point to thank them just for considering me. Making it doesn't matter, and I hope if they see the eagerness in my eyes or the happiness from the voice, they know without a doubt, maybe remember this guy for later. Great Post Sir!

As someone who has hired many, I will say that if someone takes the time to send a 'thank you' email - they DO stand out. It may not make all the difference in the world to the decision, but if it comes down to a couple, and one went the extra mile - That might make the difference. The other thing that has caught my eye in the last few years is that even before the interview, folks generally have my name. Some REAL stand outs have looked me up on LinkedIN (and I can see that) - that shows me initiative that makes them stand out even before the interview. Just pointing that out - because more agencies and companies are looking at LinkedIN as your online 'professional' profile.

And by the way - I just got let go last Friday,, So I am in the same boat with a lot of you - So understanding these things will be KEY to my own welfare. So Use what you see here!

I think it is important to send an email or letter giving thanks for their time in giving an interview. It shows that you are appreciative of the opportunity given - whether it is successful or a failure.

I believe it is important.

COL Mikel J. Burroughs I would submit that it is more important than ever. It shows the company that the candidate is engaged in the hiring process, has a basic understanding of etiquette, and is genuinely interested in becoming a part of their company. With resumes being looked at in a flash then recycled, trashed, filed, or set aside for an interview it is important for a candidate to further separate themselves from other candidates. It is not guaranteed to work every time, but it is still the proper action.