Writing a Thank You Letter

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After you have finished an interview, you cannot just relax and wait for a job offer. You need to start thinking about a thank you letter the minute the interview is finished. Do not make the mistake of thinking the thank you letter’s only purpose is that it is the “nice thing to do”. It’s not! It serves the purpose of promoting yourself one final time as a potential contributor to the company. Write a thank you note within 24 hours of your interview!

How to write a thank you letter

Keep it short: one page or less.
If possible, it should be typed on 8.5″ x 11″ bonded, high quality paper. If you cannot type it, neatly print on the same type of paper.
Mail it within 24 hours of the interview.

Paragraph 1

Keep it simple. Remind the reader (the person with whom you interviewed) that you interviewed for the job (restate the position) and that you are very interested in it. If you interviewed with a panel, address the letter to the person who led the panel.

Paragraph 2

Restate your qualifications. Continue the sales pitch of what you have to offer. Refer to specific points you discussed in the interview.

Paragraph 3

Closure – The last paragraph in the letter should be essentially a repeat of the opening: Thank the interviewer again for his or her time; restate how interested you are in the position. End by telling the interviewer to contact you if they have any further questions and include your home phone number.

Generally, it is acceptable to call in about a week to find out where you stand.