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, CPRW, CCMC, CIC, author of three books on r鳵m頡nd 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
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