Thank you note after an interview

If you’ve been on a recent job interview, it’s probably a good idea to follow up with a thank you note to your prospective employer(s). There’s only one problem. What to write? You really don’t know what to include besides the obvious to make your note “stand out”. Here’s what to do:

Think about your last interview with your last prospective employer. Ask yourself what type of a position it was, who were you interviewing with and what kind of company/industry was it. Answering these questions will help you to formulate an appropriate thank you note tailored exactly to the employer and their tastes. Was there a specific topic of discussion that you hit on with this employer? What might “float their boat” or pique their interest? You have to know who your audience is in order to write the perfect thank you note peppered with taste and style.

Also, consider what you are knowledgeable about and interested in. Is your employer interested in the same? For example, you may want to forward some interesting articles to your employer displaying your tastes in reading material. Based on what type of position and company it is, you’ll know what and what not to send. If it’s a marketing company, you can get creative and send all types of clever articles and things pertaining to the job and field along with your thank you note. Don’t go overboard. Just add a little something that will separate the boys from the men.

By no means should you write a standard, cookie-cutter note saying, “I appreciate your taking the time to interview with me on (such and such a date). I’m very interested in the position. Hope to hear from you.” Please avoid this type of response. It is obviously too typical and standard. The employer will probably either fall asleep reading it or toss it in the garbage. You need something specific to grab their attention.

For instance, if you were given a brochure, some type of pamphlet, or literature pertaining to the company and samples of what they’re about, what they’ve worked on, or a publication or newsletter of theirs, by all means include what you have learned in the thank you note. Give back what you have been given. Employers like to hear all about themselves, but make it sound genuine. Do not write verbatim off of their recent newsletter or brochure. Simply reflect on what you’ve taken in and comment on it in a positive way. Add your own insights, suggestions, or support.

As for stationery, make sure you use a business-like or formal looking envelope and letter set. You may have more leeway if you’ve applied to a company which is more creative and honors the arts, advertising, or media. But, for general businesses, it’s best to keep it conservative and neat. Also, make sure your note goes out immediately following the interview. Don’t hesitate. You don’t want to be forgotten.

Thank you notes are not tickets to a good job. They may improve your chance of getting into a position. Thank you notes reflect good manners and reveal your true nature. Thank you notes show reliability and responsibility.

Final tip: Always use good grammar in your thank you notes. Proofread them before they go out.

www.essortment.com

careers, Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy