Module 1 – Unit 5: Project Work
Drafting a Thank-You Letter
Imagine you just had an interview and you want to write a brief letter or email to the interviewer. You are very interested in the job. A thank-you letter can be an effective way of getting an employer to take special notice of you.
Think About It
- How soon after an interview should you send a thank-you letter or email?
- Should you send thank-you letters to anyone besides the interviewer(s)? If so, who?
- In what situations would you call an employer after an interview? How long after the interview would you wait to call the employer?
An effective thank-you letter is similar to a cover letter because it shows something about your personality, although it is usually shorter. Your thank-you letter can make you stand out among other job candidates and make you more memorable. Some statistics show that only about 10% of all candidates send thank-you letters, so if you do, it may influence the employer’s decision about hiring you.
First Paragraph
Show your appreciation to the interviewer(s) for meeting with you to discuss the job. Say something that impressed you about their organization.
Second Paragraph
Include some new information or an additional reason for the interviewer to hire you. For example, if you forgot to make an important point about yourself in the interview, you can offer this information now. If possible, make a connection between this new piece of information and the job. State your interest in the job.
Third Paragraph
Tell the interviewer that you are expecting to hear from them again. You may also include the best time to reach you by phone. Inform the interviewer that you would be willing to discuss the job further, if necessary.
Adapted from The Damn Good Resume. www.damngood.com. Retrieved 11/19/04.
Draft a sample thank-you letter, using information about yourself. When finished, proofread your letter to check grammar, spelling, and punctuation.