How a Thank You Letter Can Increase Your Chance of Acing a Job Interview

How a Thank You Letter Can Increase Your Chance of Acing a Job Interview

In this highly competitive job market, to be called in for an interview is something many jobseekers will celebrate.

After a job interview, to make the most out of the process, you should write the interviewer a letter expressing appreciation and thanks for the interview conducted. It is best to write within 48 hours, although it depends on your situations.

If the interviewer tells you he/she will make a decision tomorrow, you should use e-mail to send a thank you note promptly. There are interviewers who prefer to follow up by e-mail. Make sure you noticed and act appropriately.

On the other hand, if the job you're applying involve doing personalized work for clients, you may want to send a handwritten note on a nice card. Handwritten note gives more personal touch.

Basically, the purpose of the letter is to:
- show your appreciation for the interviewer's time and interest in you.
- remind the interviewer about you, mention or clarify something you forget to say in the interview.
- emphasize your qualifications for the position and how you can contribute to the company.
- show that you have good manners and take the interview seriously.
- follow up with any information the employer asked you to provide after the interview.
- get the attention of the interviewer.

As you see, sending a thank you letter serves multiple purposes; it can be used as a tool for providing additional information and keeps the communication open. This is another chance to set you apart from other applicants.

Tips on writing thank you letters:
- Send a thank you letter to each person who interviews you. Show them you appreciate their time and decision.
- Personalize every letters you send. Don't create a letter and send them to every one. Mention the name of the person you write to in the letter.
- Make it easy to read. Use plain and light stationery.
- Keep the letter brief.
- Summarize the date you spoke with the interviewer and important points during the interviews.
- Check for any spell and grammar error with your word processor before sending.
- Make sure that your thank you letter uses the same heading as your resume and initial cover letters, to maintains consistency.

In any case, you have to consider your situation and develop a thank you letter appropriately. For example, handwritten note on a card may be perceived as less professional or polished. If you think the personal touch aspect of it outweigh the drawback, then by all means use it.