10 Steps to Writing an Effective Thank You Letter

by: Robert Moment

The interview was fantastic; you know that you impressed with your perfect answers and excellent resume. You also know that, from this point on, you just have to sit back and wait for the telephone to ring with your future employer on the line, begging you to come to work. You know this, right? Very wrong. No matter how wonderful the interview or great the resume, you can never be sure that you will get the job of your dreams—-anything can happen. However, one way to help shift the odds in your favor is to write a Thank You Letter. This courtesy is often ignored by job candidates; so, if you take time, future employers are likely to take notice. An effective Thank You Letter can push you closer toward your career goal. The Thank You Letter should always sell your skills and how they will help your future employer.

To write the proper Thank You Letter, follow these simple but effective tips:

1. Keep It Short

A typical Thank You Letter is one page in length; this allows you to make your point without going on too long. Remember that most employers do not have the time to read page after page of gratitude. Show that you understand by keeping your letter short. You show courtesy in two ways.

2. Refresh Their Memory

Refer to specific pieces of information discussed in your interview—this shows that you paid attention and can remember detail. By doing this, you can remind the employer why you are best for the job.

3. Send It Off

After your interview, begin writing your Thank You Letter. Do not wait; the employer should receive your letter within 48 hours. This shows proper respect. If too much time passes, a letter is not likely to help you. Your potential boss will probably forget you.

4. Be Professional

Your letter should be typed on plain, white paper. Do not use items like colored paper or special bonded paper. Do not send your letter through email or handwrite it. That shows a lack of respect.

5. Emphasize Everything

In your letter, be sure to reemphasize your qualifications and experiences. Remind the employers of why you truly are the best person for this position. A Thank You Letter can serve to alleviate any doubts he/she had of you during your interview if you stress your best qualities.

6. Extra Information

Make sure to save room in your letter for extra information that you may have forgotten to mention during your interview, or that the employer did not ask for. This can help reinforce you in their minds.

7. Be Original

Do not simply copy an example of a Thank You Letter and fill in the blanks; your letter must be of your own design. Otherwise, you can come across as unwilling to put effort into your projects.

8. Encourage Contact

Give your pertinent information (Email, Home Phone, Cell Phone, etc.). This will allow the employer to decide whether he/she wants to contact you or not—-you give them the chance. If you do not put your information in the letter, you may very well miss an opportunity.

9. Proofread

While an employer will appreciate a Thank You Letter, he/she will not appreciate one with spelling or grammar mistakes. Before you send your letter, proofread it; and, once you have read and reread, allow someone else to do the same.

10. Close With Gratitude

Without sounding overly dramatic, make sure that you thank the employer for taking the time to interview you. Thank them in your own way.

By following these steps, you can impress your future employer and give yourself the edge against other candidates. A simple courtesy could become the deciding factor of getting that perfect job.