Fewer than 20% of interviewees take the time
to send a thank you letter. Therefore, sending one:
Helps you stand out from the crowd.
Makes a good first impression. It shows you have good manners, good people skills and good follow-up skills.
Gives you another opportunity to market the skills you have that are particularly well suited to the position.
Gives you a chance to do damage control if you believe you could have done better in the interview.
Guidelines:
Evaluate the interview as soon as possible after the interview. Make notes on what the needs and concerns of the interviewer (or interviewers) seemed to be, what questions they asked you, how well you feel you responded and any other information that might help you write the thank you letter(s) or make a decision on accepting the job if it’s offered to you. Did you forget to mention something vital that will help them make the decision to hire you?
Send a personalized letter to everyone who interviewed you, addressing the specific needs and concerns of the person to whom you are writing.
Send the letter(s) within 24 hours of the interview.
Keep the letter simple, and keep it to one page.
Be positive and show enthusiasm. Keep the tone of your letter warm and personal, yet professional.
Use a standard business letter format. If you enclose anything with the letter, include the enclosure notation.
What Should You Include In Your Letter?
Introductory paragraph:
Personalize the paragraph. Include a statement of appreciation for the
interview. Thank the person for his or her time. Remind the person of who you are.
Mention the position you discussed and/or the time you met. Communicate your
enthusiasm for and interest in the position and/or the company.
Body of the letter
(second and, sometimes, third paragraph): Sell your value. Recap
your key qualifications for the job, telling the person why you will e
xcel in the position and explaining what you can contribute to the
job. Be specific. Mention tangible results you have achieved in the
areas of concern the interviewer discussed during the interview. Mention
anything of importance that was not mentioned during the interview.
Correct any mistakes you feel you may have made during the interview (damage control).
Closing Paragraph: Personalize the
paragraph. Thank the person again for their time and effort on your behalf.
Include a final sales pitch, emphasizing your ability to do the job. Be
specific about when you will make contact again or when you expect to hear
from them. Restate your interest in the job. If you want it, ask for it!
