Thank You Letters Aren't Enough!

Is it important to send a thank-you letter after an interview? Absolutely. Send a thank-you letter as soon as possible after an interview - either that day or the next day. It's common courtesy and an important part of your job search activity. We don't get that many personalized letters any more that are hand addressed.

Do not type the address on the envelope. Print it by hand. A personalized letter in an envelope with a handwritten address is more intriguing and special than an email.

But the letter is not enough. Follow it up about one week later with a phone call to the person who interviewed you and explain that you want to make sure he or she received your thank you note.

Why the phone call? This may seem redundant but your real purpose is to talk to the person who is probably involved in the hiring decision while your competition is still waiting to hear back from the company. Now you have the opportunity to strengthen the relationship with an interesting personal conversation. Or at the very least, a personal conversation.

You also have the opportunity to revisit an important issue from the interview or elaborate on a key point or skill you possess. Ask an insightful question about the position, the department, or perhaps a significant business development that has occurred in the industry.

If your research has uncovered some interesting information about the company, share it. And of course, if you are fortunate enough to have another job offer, this is an excellent time to let them know if this company is your first choice. This could expedite the decision making but only use this technique if you do have another offer.

© Copyright BJ Rakow 2011. All rights reserved. Author, "Much of What You Know about Job Search Just Ain't So." - a serious book about dynamic job search strategies written in a light-hearted fashion.