The How's & Why's Of Saying Thanks

“We have a few more interviews scheduled and we’re looking at making a decision toward the end of next week. Thank you for coming in and talking to us.” Those words are the last words we hear when leaving an interview. We get up, shake hands, extend a few cordial words, and walk out the door. Now, all that’s left is the waiting game, right?

Wrong.

There is still something left to do, a critically important piece to the job search puzzle that needs to be filled in, the Thank You Letter.

Don’t underestimate its power. It could be a deciding factor in your favor, especially when other candidates with similar experience, qualifications and skills are awaiting their turn to dazzle a prospective employer. And most employers expect candidates to write a Thank You Letter.

Reasons Why:

This letter serves many important purposes, which we’ll look at here.

#1: You know you’re perfect for the job. This is a one-on-one opportunity to reinforce your good points. Plus, it shows you are courteous, knowledgeable and professional.

#2: You mis-spoke or were unclear about some of the answers you gave. You have an opportunity to correct and explain what you really meant to say in a more relaxed forum.

#3: You were not asked about other experiences and skills you have that will enable to successfully fulfill the requirements for the position. Here is where you can talk about those skills and how they will let you make an immediate, positive, productive impact.

#4: Gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your written communication skills.

#5: Do not use a form letter; write a personal letter to each person you spoke to during the interview. This is known as attention to detail and will, once again, enable you to demonstrate another skill you have.

Regardless of how you decide to send your Thank You letter, follow professional business letter standard. Since e-mail is the quickest way, more candidates are utilizing this method. But using the curtsy NET stuff, like emoticons, short hand and acronyms, are not the way to go. A Thank You card or hand written note are also acceptable, especially in fields where dealing with people, are key parts of the job.

As with any correspondence, make sure spelling (especially names), titles, grammar are all correct. All of this will help you to be remembered in a positive way.

If you do what others won’t, you’ll get the results they don’t.