Your resume has been selected out of that pile of hundreds and the employer has, at long last, called you in for your first face-to-face meeting. The meeting went well (you think) and you’re wondering what’s next.
Well, before we get to that ‘what’s next’ stage, there is one step you must take. And that is, to write to everyone that was in that room with you and express your appreciation for the time they took with you. And, yes: everyone MUST get a different letter--that is, if you want to be considered seriously for that job.
It’s best to compose a draft of this letter when things are still fresh in your mind: i.e. walk out of that interview and into a Starbucks or McDonald’s. Over a cup or coffee or a coke, think back to something they may have said or done during your interview…or even an article of clothing they were wearing, a picture on the corner of their desk etc. etc, and comment on it.
It almost doesn’t matter WHAT you say as long as (a) you get your message in their hands within 48 hours; (b) you express your appreciation in different words to each individual and (c) there are no glaring grammatical errors in your text.
What does a thank you letter accomplish? For starters, it sets you apart from the mass of humanity that appears to believe that they are entitled to a job. Secondly, it gives you a chance to state something you may have forgotten in the initial interview. Third, it sends a very powerful message to the company representatives—namely, that you are someone who understands and values civility. (Guess what pile the candidates who didn’t send a thank-you letter will end up?)
For consistency’s sake, you’ll want to use the same type face/style as the original resume you sent the company.
Above all, make sure that the tone you use is respectful; don’t use first names and DON’T try for humor--it inevitably backfires in writing anyway. The tone of your letter needs to be sincere, professional and serious, because those are exactly the kind of employees that are most coveted.
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