A thank-you letter may be the single most important correspondence that you have with your interviewer, and if written correctly may boost your chances of getting the job. If this piece of the interview process is so important, then why are almost 50% of people not sending a thank you note? Here are simple guidelines to follow to make your thank you note stand out from the rest.
Use technology
People are still asking if it is okay to send an email instead of a hand written thank-you letter. The answer is yes, send an email. This is a good way to communicate because you know that they are going to receive it, and that it will arrive to them in a timely manner.
Be Prompt
You want to follow-up with the interviewer within 24 hours of the interview. When you get home from the interview this may be the best time get started on the thank-you letter.
Write as many as needed
If you interviewed with more than one person, be sure and send a thank-you letter to each one. Address each individual specifically, and keep in mind that they may share notes so do not send them the same letter.
The Point
The reason for sending this thank-you letter is to: 1) express your appreciation for the opportunity, 2) state why you feel you are qualified for the position, and 3) Communicate your interest and tell them why. Before you begin writing think about how you want to communicate these three things, and then make them the focus of your letter.
Personalize it
Your thank-you letter should have a personal touch. You can do this by bringing up specific things that were discussed in the interview. Mention anything that you think will help the interviewer remember the time they spent with you.
Proof read: Check it and check it again. As with any email to a prospective employer you can do more damage than good if your letter contains errors. Ideas for proof reading: ask someone else to help you or print it out and read it out loud.
Sample thank-you letter template:
Dear Mr. /Ms. Last Name:
Use the first paragraph to thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. Explain your appreciation for the opportunity.
Reiterate what you learned is important to them and remind them that you possess these qualities and skills. You can add how you feel you can add value. Use this paragraph to remind them why you are an ideal candidate.
In your closing paragraph, make sure you tell them that you are interested in the opportunity. Your reasons may include one or more of the following: mission, culture fit, leadership, product/service, etc. Reiterate your appreciation for being considered for the job and let the interviewer know you are looking forward to hearing from them soon.
Sincerely,
Your signature
