Absolutely, Yes… Send Post-Interview Thank You Letters
Yesterday we discussed cover letters, the job search communication that goes on at the beginning of the process. Now we look at an even more important letter you’ll need to write nearer to the end of the process – the post-interview thank you letter. This is such an important topic that we make time to discuss it and provide a sample letter in the Job Search Boot Camp. I personally think it’s so important that I dedicated a couple of pages to it in my book.
And, hey, we’re not the only ones who think it’s important. A 2005 Careerbuilder.com survey showed that almost half of employers who responded said that they would either disregard a candidate who didn’t send a thank you note or they would at least let it weigh against them when their rival candidates did.
7 Things You Need To Do To Do It Well:
#1 Refer to your post-interview debrief notes to come up with good content for your thank you letter. (You are jotting down post-interview debrief notes as soon as you finish the interview, aren’t you? If not, start doing that immediately!)
#2 Elaborate on any points that you feel you might not have been covered to your satisfaction. (If, after the interview, you find yourself thinking, “Aw, man, I should have said…” you’ll know what I mean.)
#3 Be sure to recap the top qualities that you know they need that match what you bring.
#4 If possible, make reference to something that was uniquely brought up during the interview. For example, you find out that the interviewer is participating in an upcoming charity golf tournament, wish him or her well in the event. This reminds the interviewer that you’re a person – not just a resume.
#5 If you are truly interested, express your interest in the job. Too many people omit the important step of asking for the job. The thank you letter is the perfect time to make sure you do it!
#6 Obviously, handwriting the note is more personal, but if your handwriting is illegible or messy, go ahead and type it up… the point is to make a good impression.
#7 Send or drop off the letter within 24 hours after the interview.
Remember, thank you letters are about gratitude AND making a lasting, positive impression. Sending a thank you after an interview will make you stand out among the other candidates who might not follow up (and the odds are good that you’ll be one of the few who do). However, there’s an even deeper message you send about yourself as a potential employee. How you conduct yourself by following up demonstrates how you might just be a dependable employee who will follow through with your tasks on the job. Definitely a desirable impression to make on the hiring manager!
Happy Hunting!
