Is there any other interviewing technique that will set you
apart like a Thank You Letter? Possibly not—some studies
show that only 20% of candidates remember to send one, and
of that figure, nearly 80% get hired.
For this reason, I highly recommend using Thank You Letters
as an effective job search strategy. In addition to good
form, interview follow-up can help to you to expand your
network, PLUS maintain positive relations with the
employer—all key steps in a competitive market.
As a former recruiter, I recall that it was rare for any
candidate to remember to thank me after an interview. You
can bet that any applicant doing so scored some serious
points.
Here are 5 tips for a Thank You Letter that wows employers
and puts you among the top candidates:
1 - Personalized is best. In fact, the more of a high-touch
feel to your Thank You Letter, the better. This means that
handwritten cards are a fantastic strategy for interviewees.
One method that works well is to keep blank,
business-styled note cards in your car. Take them out after
the interview while still in the parking lot, and write
your notes right then and there.
You'll find that the information discussed at the interview
is still fresh enough that you should have plenty of
ideas—plus, you'll impress interviewers with your
personalized approach.
2 - Don't leave anyone out. I've heard from many job
hunters that thanking EVERYONE, from the receptionist to
the CEO, was key to putting their best foot forward after
an interview.
One of my clients who did this reported that even though he
wasn't hired right then, he WAS asked to come back a few
months later to interview for an even better role!
3 - Immediacy is key. It's best to maintain your relevancy
in the minds of hiring authorities, and that means being
ready to go as soon as possible after the interview.
Some professionals overnight Thank You Letters to the
hiring team. Others email them post-interview (within
HOURS).
The point here is to use a prompt response that sends a
clear message of your intent regarding the job.
4 - Skip the stalker tactics. While a quick reminder on
letterhead can speak volumes about your professionalism,
odd gestures like sending a shoe to "get your foot in the
door" can backfire big-time.
Keep in mind that your main goal is to be remembered for
your strengths and presentation—NOT the fact that you can
scare the people who've interviewed you.
5 - Get to the point. The best Thank You Letters start by
expressing your appreciation of the interviewer's time, and
then move on to a concrete example of what interests you
about the job.
For example, mentioning that you enjoyed discussing the
company's plans for expansion, or noting that the new IT
security project sounds like a great area for your
contributions, can keep you top-of-mind.
Closing with a reiteration of your interest is always
appropriate, as is a stated declaration that you look
forward to future discussions with the interviewer about
the position. Keep your letter concise and targeted.
In summary, remember to use every tool at your disposal to
maintain your competitive edge—and that a well-timed Thank
You Letter can work pure magic for landing the job.
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Resume authority Laura Smith-Proulx of An Expert Resume
(http://www.anexpertresume.com), author of three books on
resume and job search topics, has attained a 98% success
rate winning interviews with techniques for a competitive
edge in the job hunt based on her expertise as a former
recruiter. Visit An Expert Resume to get Laura's FREE
E-Course, "The 7 Biggest Resume Mistakes That Can Keep You
From Your Dream Job... and How to Avoid Them."
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