“Did you send a thank-you letter?”
This is one of the first questions a job or career coach will ask their client after their hiring interview- and the answer is usually, no. A simple “thank-you” note or email can make all the difference in your hiring process. Take a minute to think about this- everyone likes to feel appreciated. By sending a thank-you letter, you give the employer the feeling that you appreciate the time they have taken out to meet you and consider you as a prospective candidate for employment. You can send a thank-you email, or write a note on professional stationary- this shows that you are professional and are courteous towards your employers.
If you decide to thank your employer with a letter, don’t forget to use the paper that is similar to the one you used for your resume and cover letter. Type the letter using either the Times New Roman or Arial font in size 12. On your thank-you letter, use the same format that you have used for the heading of your resume and cover letter. Generally, the thank-you letter includes three paragraphs, just like a cover letter. Remember to sign your letter!
If you decide to hand-write your thank-you note, ensure that you use only professional stationary. Make sure that your note is easy to read and clear to understand. You can also send your thank-you note electronically if you have the interviewer’s email address. Either type the note in your message box or attach it as a separate document. Don’t forget to ask for business cards before your interview ends- this helps you get the contact details of your employer.
Your first impression on the employer is important, but so is your last. A thank-you note helps ensure your last impression is positive.