Effective Interview Follow-Up Letter- Crafting the Perfect Post-Interview Touchpoint
Interview followup letters are an essential tool in the job search process. These letters serve as a way to express gratitude for the opportunity to interview, reiterate your interest in the position, and leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager. Crafting an effective followup letter can significantly increase your chances of securing the job, as it demonstrates your professionalism and dedication to the application process.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of interview followup letters, provide tips on how to write one, and share examples of successful followup letters. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your followup letter stands out and helps you land your dream job.
Why is an interview followup letter important?
1. Reinforces your interest in the position: Sending a followup letter reiterates your enthusiasm for the job and the company, reminding the hiring manager of your interest.
2. Expresses gratitude: It’s important to show appreciation for the time and consideration the interviewer has given you during the interview process.
3. Highlights your qualifications: Use the followup letter to remind the hiring manager of your skills, experience, and why you are a great fit for the role.
4. Sets you apart from other candidates: A well-crafted followup letter can differentiate you from other candidates who may not have taken the time to send one.
5. May prompt a second look: If the hiring manager has multiple candidates to choose from, your followup letter may encourage them to revisit your application.
How to write an interview followup letter:
1. Timing: Send the letter within 24 to 48 hours after the interview. This ensures that your message is still fresh in the interviewer’s mind.
2. Subject line: Make the subject line clear and concise, such as “Followup on [Your Name] for [Position Name] Interview.”
3. Greeting: Address the letter to the specific person who interviewed you, using their name if possible.
4. Express gratitude: Thank the interviewer for their time and consideration.
5. Reiterate your interest: Briefly mention your excitement about the position and the company.
6. Highlight your qualifications: Briefly summarize your key qualifications and how they align with the job requirements.
7. Ask for the next steps: Politely inquire about the next steps in the hiring process.
8. Closing: Thank the interviewer again and provide your contact information for any further questions.
9. Proofread: Ensure the letter is free of typos and grammatical errors.
Example of an interview followup letter:
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to interview me for the [Position Name] position at [Company Name] on [Date of Interview]. I was thrilled to learn more about the opportunities available at your company and am even more excited about the possibility of joining your team.
During our conversation, I discussed how my [specific skill or experience] aligns with the requirements of the [Position Name]. I am confident that my background in [relevant experience] would allow me to contribute effectively to your team and help achieve your company’s goals.
I am very interested in the opportunity to bring my skills and passion to [Company Name]. I look forward to hearing about the next steps in the hiring process and am available at your convenience for any additional information you may need.
Thank you once again for considering my application. I am looking forward to the possibility of working with you and the [Company Name] team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
By following these guidelines and crafting a thoughtful interview followup letter, you can increase your chances of securing the job you desire. Remember, it’s the little touches that can make a big difference in the job search process.