Etiquette regarding sending a thank you letter following the job interview continues to baffle job seekers. Here are the most common questions I get regarding thank you letters.
- Do hiring authorities really read thank you letters?
- What information should be included in the letter?
- How long should it be?
- Should I send a thank you letter via email or snail mail?
- Which is more appropriate; a typed or handwritten letter?
- If I interview with more than one person, do I have to send each of them a thank you letter?
You can read my responses at AOL Jobs
Hi Barbara,
We agree about the importance of Gratitude letters for not only appreciation in devoting a person’s time and energy to meet with you about a position interview, but please consider it as an advanced networking tool You can send appreciation for a presentation someone has given and for meeting for another purpose.
Please as important, also, consider dating and signing the letter. In the digital age it is not always done and could also be done with text message, for example.
Consider finally, being memorable. Join my LinkedIn.com network or attached is a manuscript I have composed on a similar topic.
Thank you for reading
Dan,
I like your idea of sending the LinkedIn invite or attachment to be more memorable. Thanks for reading!
Bravo! You’ve written on a point that’s very close to my heart. I coach my clients – often – on how to write effective thank you letters.
I also think thank you letters can be powerful when sent to the employer whose job you’ve just left (provided it wasn’t in bad circumstances) – as it can help with future opportunities, references, and potential joint ventures.
Brian,
That’s a great point. A previous boss can be one of the best networking contacts you ever have. Thanks for commenting.