A thank you letter is a brief note sent to each person with whom you
met during the interview process. Ideally, it should be typed. It should
include:
- A statement of appreciation for time spent with you.
- Mention of specific topic(s) discussed.
- Mention of any follow-up requested (i.e. As you requested, a
copy of my transcript will be sent to you).
- Pertinent information not covered in the interview.
- Re-affirmation of your interest in and qualifications for the
position.
- A final "thank you."
A thank-you letter to the interviewer makes you out from
the other candidates competing for the position. Write your follow-up
letter as soon possible after the interview.
Components of the Letter
- Type the letter in a business letter format.
- Address it to the person with whom you interviewed.
- Express appreciation for the opportunities to interview, tour the
facilities, meet other employees, etc.
- Mention the day of your interview and the position for which you
interviewed.
- Express continued interest in the position and the company.
- Re-emphasize your most important skills and qualifications and how
you expect to contribute to the organization.
- Include any information you forgot to mention in the interview, if
necessary (be brief though).
- Close your letter with a comment about future contact with the
employer.
Thank you letters should follow every interview as a professional
courtesy. Use this protocol to your advantage, keeping in mind the
following potential elements of such letters:
- To express genuine appreciation for the employer's time and
consideration.
- To reaffirm your interest in the position and to cite additional
qualifications you may not have discussed thoroughly in the
interview.
- To clarify information that may not have been positively
conveyed.
- To confirm your understanding of the next step in the
application process.
- To include your expense statement and any other details of your
visit.
In some instances, thank you letters serve another purpose. Some
employers fail to respond expeditiously to job candidates and need a
nudge. A polite way to nudge the employer to act is to enclose an
updated resume or to comment about any new developments since the
initial interview. Another approach is to say that another employer is
pressing and a decision is necessary.
Why send thank you letter?
Few people actually send them after an interview. Sending one may make
the employer see that you went an extra step. Thank you letters can also
remind the employer of your interview or something they forgot about
you, and thank you letters can prove your willingness to follow through
with projects. This is also an opportunity to share with the employer
something more about yourself and what you have to offer.
More about Thank-You Letter
