Saying "Thank You"

[Badshah Mamun]

Saying "Thank You"

by Joy Darlington and Nancy Schuman

Though many people think of the thank-you as superfluous ? sometimes even toadyish ? it is a mandatory part of the job search process. Many recruiters even claim that the thank-you letter, which is essentially the same as a follow-up letter, is sort of a last test of a candidate's suitability.

If they receive the letter within the next few days, the candidate scores some definite points with the interviewer. If they do not receive a letter, the job may go to another candidate who had the courtesy to thank the interviewer for his time.

Aside from being a recruiter test, sending a thank-you letter to the person or people with whom you met during your interview can be a way for you to underscore your continued interest in the position and the company. If you've ever been in the situation where you've come up with the perfect response to a question three hours after the fact, the follow-up letter is the way you can express such a response.

Though it should be short and sweet, you should feel free to (tactfully) mention any details you may have forgotten in the course of the interview. Do this first in an e-mail. If the interview didn't go as well as you had hoped, the thank-you letter is also the time to win back some lost points.

Be polite and make sure to express your continued interest in the position, as well as your ability to perform the duties the job requires. Make sure to proofread the letter carefully and, if you're unsure of how to spell the person's name, call the company and ask the receptionist or someone else who might know. Many interviewers think a handwritten note shows care and personalizes the candidate's desire for hire.

While a handwritten letter on a piece of nice stationery is the best way to do it (provided your writing is legible), sending a quick e-mail is okay too. If the interviewer's e-mail address is listed on her card, use it. If not, don't ask for it. Make sure to write and send this thank-you letter immediately following the interview so that your meeting is still fresh in the inter-viewer's mind. It will help to put a face to the letter and maybe even a face to the position she's hiring for.

Source: http://www.netplaces.com/job-interview/after-the-interview/saying-thank-you.htm