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1.
Thank You Letters
Several situations in the job search process require a thank you letter such
as:
- After
an informational interview, company visit, or other
career exploration activity
- When
someone provides you with job search assistance
(e.g., refers you to an employer, provides a network
contact, or speaks on your behalf to a prospective
employer)
- After
an internship or job interview
Additional
Tips for a Successful Thank You Letter:
- Send
a personalized letter to each individual within
24 hours (preferably before any hiring decisions
have been made)
- Laser
print your word-processed letter on high quality
paper
- Keep
your letter short and straightforward
- Reiterate
your skills and qualifications, particularly those
pertinent to the position
- Mention
a specific topic or issue that was discussed during
your interview in order to refresh the interviewer's
memory of you and your conversation
- Provide
any information that was overlooked during the
interview or that was specifically requested by
the interviewer
- Communicate
your continued interest and enthusiasm for the
opportunity
Fewer than 15% of job seekers follow up with thank you letters, so don't
miss this chance to get a leg up on your competition!
2.
Letters Accepting a Job Offer
Follow the same professional writing tips (discussed above) when you write
a letter to accept a job or internship offer. Within the body of your letter,
you should:
- Accept
the offer (refer to an earlier phone or personal
conversation or an offer letter).
- Restate
your job title, agreed upon compensation, travel
plans, if any, expected start date and any other
pertinent information.
- Express
your appreciation and enthusiasm about joining
their organization.
3.
Letters Declining a Job Offer
For those positions that you decline, it is good practice to speak with the
employer and follow-up with a professional letter. Within the body of your
letter, you should:
- Communicate
your appreciation for their offer
- Decline
the offer graciously and express the difficulty
of making this decision
- Thank
the employer once again for his or her time and
effort
4.
Letters in Response to Rejections
If you don't receive an offer or if you receive a letter of rejection from
an organization that you would love to work for, write a letter to express
your continued interest in future opportunities and to thank them for their
time and effort. This type of letter can be challenging to write but can make
the difference in order to keep the door open for future opportunities with
that particular organization.
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