Thank You Letters - When to send them, and what to include
By Karen Shane, B.A., CPRW

When you are really hoping to land a specific career and you've attended one or more interviews, it would be a good idea to create a thank you letter. Not only will you be expressing gratitude for time spent interviewing you by one or more interviewers, but if you write the letter properly, you'll be reinforcing how you can add value to the organization.

Start by mentioning the name of the person with whom you met. If you picked up a business card when you attended the interview, you'll have the correct spelling of their name and job title. Address your Thank You letter as if you were writing a cover letter.

Mention that you appreciate their time. Indicate something that was mentioned during the interview and explain further how you could add value by performing that action. For example, if they said that they definitely need a Point-of-Contact person at the Information Desk, tell them why you would be suitable in this capacity. Elaborate that people often depend upon you for advice, direction and guidance – if this is true. Tell them that you communicate with clarity in an easy to understand manner. You may give a brief example of a situation that a current or former employer acknowledged.

You may also mention something that you may have forgotten to say in your resume or at the interview. Otherwise, it could be something persuasive that you want to emphasize so they notice your transferable skills even more. Try to write about a quality or skill the interviewer emphasized they need or want in an employee and describe how you could meet their expectations. You should ideally send this letter 2-12 hours following the interview.

To help you start your Thank You letter here is sample of 'opening text':

I wanted to thank you for your valuable time spent during my interview session. I was so pleased to have the opportunity to further describe how I am interested in making a difference at ______________.

• A Thank You letter should be no more than 3-5 paragraphs.
• Include your phone number and email.
• Ask if there is any more additional information they need.
• Tell them what intrigues you about this position, how it would relate to your academic studies, and why you feel you can handle the job.

Remember, this letter should also outline something about their company, so take a look at the website and identify something in the Mission Statement or Vision Statement that you could assist with, and tell them how you could do this. Everything needs to be to the point. A swift flowing letter that expresses determination about why they should hire You and no one else!

Karen Shane, B.A., CPRW
A certified professional resume writer in Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Visit: www.resume4me.ca to learn more about expert resume, cover letter and thank you letter preparation. If you'd like me to review your resume to enhance it or re-write it from scratch, a professional fee can be quoted by email. Send your resume to: shaneresumes@gmail.com.
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