Follow-Up Letters
In this article we will talk about why you need a follow-up letter and how to write it. Communication is key in the job market. It is critical to initiate an appropriate level of contact to raise the odds of your becoming gainfully employed. If you have been on an interview, you will want to show both gratitude and interest in the position.
Why is it important to follow-up on a job interview?
When you go into a job interview, you are, in essence, selling yourself. You are one of many people competing for a position. You are one of many people who are skilled, talented and specially trained. It is a very competitive world and an education or training does not guarantee you a job. You will need to be able to convince a future employer why he/she should choose you over all the other candidates. A follow-up letter is one more tool to help you reach your goal. A well timed and well written follow-up/thank you letter will help you secure the job.
Why write a follow-up letter?
A follow-up letter serves several purposes:
- It lets the employer know that you are interested.
- It reminds the employer who you are
- It is an opportunity to reiterate your skills
- It tells the employer that you respect their time
Example of a follow-up letter
Name
Address
Phone number
Dear ___________,
I want to thank you for taking the time to talk to me about (Position applied for) I appreciate your consideration in interviewing me for this position.
After speaking with you, I believe that I would be a great candidate for this position as I posess the strong (analytical) skills, as well as the ability to (work with a team) that this position requires.
In addition to my enthusiasm for this position, I would also bring the technical skills and adaptability necessary to get the job done.
I am very interested in working for you and look forward to hearing from you regarding this position. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact me at (Cell phone)
Once again, thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
"Your attitude not your aptitude will determine your altitude."~Zig Ziglar
What to include in your Follow-up letter
It is important to thank the interviewer(s) for their time. If you were given a tour, make sure to thank the guide, also. Name the position you interviewed for. Even if your interview went very well, don't assume that the interviewer will remember exactly who you are. They generally have many interviews to conduct as well run their businesses. The purpose of this letter is to both thank them and remind them who you are and why they should consider you. Your letter should be upbeat and outline those positive qualities that show your suitability for the position. Keep it light and keep it short. Make it easy for them to contact you.The letter should be sent as soon as possible, within 24 hours of the interview. A handwritten letter is always preferable but if time is of the essence, send it by e-mail.
"There is no certainty, only opportunity."~From the movie V For Vendetta (2005)
Resources for Follow-up Letters
Whether you are new at job hunting or newly unemployed, you are probably feeling a bit overwhelmed. There are so many rules and ettiquette to follow from the first phone call to the negotiation stage. Rest assured, for everything you will need along the way, there is a resource for it..You can find many of those resources online. Monster.com has a wealth of resource advice and forums and have sample resumes and cover letters, etc. If you prefer to work with someone, you may want to check with your local library. Many of them have a career resource counselor on staff or volunteers who come in. You may also prefer to use a "Head Hunter" or employment agency.The choice is up to you. Good luck!
