Professional Thank You Letters

1. Professional Thank You Letters

2. Sending a Thank-You Letter After a Job Interview, Career Fair or Networking Event • Write a letter after receiving information, advice, or a referral from a contact. Write a letter immediately after talking with an employer at a career fair or interviewing for a job. The letter should be written within 24 hours of the conversation. Should I Type It or Write It? • Typing your thank-you letter is a way to show you know how to write a standard business letter. Handwritten notes are typically more appropriate for those who assisted you during your on-site interview (receptionist, etc.). Is It Appropriate to Email a Thank-You Letter? • If you believe the employer/recruiter will be making immediate decisions regarding interviews, you may email your thank-you letter. Write “Interview Follow-Up” or “Career Fair Follow-Up” or something similar in the subject line and use the standard business letter format.

3. Writing a Thank-You Letter • Opening paragraph: Thank the employer/recruiter for his/her time in talking with you. You may also want to mention something specific that you discussed to reiterate your interest and help the employer/recruiter remember your conversation. • Second paragraph: Restate why you believe that your qualifications (skills, experiences, interests) fit well with the organization. • Second or third paragraph: If there were significant points about your experience or qualifications that you did not mention at the career fair, this is an opportunity to share those. This is also an opportunity to respond to questions that you were unable to answer at that time. You do not need to apologize and offer reasons for not responding then; simply provide the information. • Closing paragraph: Once again, express your interest and your appreciation for their consideration. If no specific follow-up plan was made, state that you would like to stay in touch regarding opportunities and offer your contact information.

4. Writing a Thank-You Letter After an Interview • A thank-you letter shows thoughtfulness, a characteristic many employers value. Writing a thank-you letter also gives you an opportunity to reiterate your interest in the position. When to Write a Thank-You Letter • The letter should be written within 24 hours of the interview. If you know the organization will be making a hiring decision right away, you can send your thank-you letter as an email.

5. Writing a Thank-You Letter After an Interview • A thank-you letter shows thoughtfulness, a characteristic many employers value. Writing a thank-you email or letter also gives you an opportunity to reiterate your interest in the position. • When to Write a Thank-You Letter • The letter should be written within 24 hours of the interview. If you know the organization will be making a hiring decision right away, send your thank-you letter as an email. • Letter Tips • If you prefer to send a letter and time permits, type the letter to make it look more professional and to show that you know how to format business letters. If there were others in the organization who assisted with your interview arrangements, you might send them a handwritten note. Thank employers for their time and express your continued interest in the organization. The letter should be short and to the point; however, you can still mention something you found particularly appealing or interesting.