I have received many questions regarding e-mailing a thank-you after an interview.  Sending an e-mailed thank-you can reinforce the impression that you made at the interview, correct misimpressions, provide additional information, reinforce your qualifications, confirm your interest, and illustrate your understanding and adherence to the etiquette involved in a professional job search.  You may realize by now that these are the same things that you do when you send a written or typed thank-you.  E-mail messages are not always your best choice.  

You should use an e-mail thank you when:

• You hope to continue a dialogue with the employer or recruiter.  E-mail tends to be more conversational and enables a quick reply.
• Quick action matters.  The job could be filled while you are waiting for a note to be delivered by snail mail.
• That is the method you used for sending your resume.
• The employer requested electronic communication in a job ad.
• Dealing with a high-tech firm.
• You are a procrastinator and your choice is e-mail or nothing.
• You are over the age of 40 to show you are contemporary - showing ease with technology.
• Instinct tells you it is the correct method for the particular employer.
• You are communicating with a recruiter.

You should not use an e-mail thank you when you:

• Are a senior executive.
• Suspect an interviewer, based on interview appearance and behavior, is a traditionalist.  Paper works better with traditionalists.
• Want it saved in your file.
• Are concerned that it might get lost in cyberspace and may not be seen.

You may want to send an e-mail immediately, followed by a written note or typed letter.  Some authorities think that this is overkill.  Others say it emphasizes interest and enthusiasm.  Your personal style will help you decide if one or both methods are best for you.

Somehow, a written note still seems more meaningful and effective but I have seen both methods work for my clients