5 Tips to Capture the Magic of a Thank You Letter
Is there any other interviewing technique that will set you apart like a Thank You Letter? Possibly not - and studies have shown that only 20% of candidates remember this crucial step, and of that figure, nearly 80% get hired!
For this reason, I highly recommend adding this strategy to your arsenal of job hunting tools. In addition, it's a great way to be remembered and expand your network - all key steps in today's 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 pointers for a Thank You letter that wows employers and puts you in top consideration for a high-powered role:
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 the handwritten 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.
In fact, one such professional who did this reported back that he maintained contact at the company, and even though he wasn't hired right then, was asked to come back a few months later to interview for a more senior-level 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 their Thank You letters to the hiring manager. Others email them promptly (within HOURS) after the interview.
Again, this is a technique that clearly sends the 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 while indicating that you'd like to be a core contributor.
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 short!
So, the next time an interviewing opportunity presents itself, remember to maintain your edge with a professional Thank You letter that just might land you the job.
© 2009
