Developing a Thank You Letter

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Developing a Thank You Letter

• By
• Edward Parshley

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Overview

• Why develop a thank you letter
• Types of letters
• Business Letter
• E-mail Message
• Hand Written Card
• Planning the letter
• Developing the letter
• Introduction
• Body
• Conclusion
• References

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Why Develop a Thank You Letter

• It helps get the attention of the potential
  employer
• Keeps you fresh in the interviewers mind
• Gives another sample of your writing and editing
  skills
• Allows you to provide details about yourself that
  were not covered
• Acts as a reminder of your qualifications
• Invites additional questions the interviewer may
  have
• Shows that you are interested in the position

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Business letter

• Advantages
• Offers room for details
• Offers a standard, professional looking format
• Can further showcase your communication skills

• Disadvantages
• Usually not delivered immediately through postal
  mail
• Un-techie communication medium
• Not easily forwarded

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E-mail Message

• Advantages
• Offers room for details
• Fast receipt
• Easily forwarded
• Showcases communication skills
• Indicates attention to detail and interest in the
  job
• Techie communication

• Disadvantages
• May be perceived as less formal or professional
• May be perceived as a less-traditional
  communication medium

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Hand Written Card

• Advantages
• Gives personal touch
• Can be perceived as more traditional

• Disadvantages
• May be seen as less professional
• May not showcase communication skills
• Delivery is not immediate through the postal
  service
• Un-techie Communication
• Not easily forwarded

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Planning the Letter

• Think about what skills, experiences, or
  education did the interviewer ask about
• Think about what information, details, or
  materials that you provided that addressed the
  questions of the interviewer

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Developing The LetterIntroduction

• Thank the recipient
• Remind the recipient of the position that you
  interviewed for
• Remind them when you interviewed
• Express your interest in the position
• Remind the interviewer of your qualifications

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Developing The LetterBody

• Reiterate key details that support your
  qualifications
• Mention additional details that were not
  mentioned in the interview
• Provide details that may separate you from other
  candidates

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Developing The LetterConclusion

• Thank the recipient
• Reiterate your interest in the Position
• Invite recipient to contact you about any
  questions they may have
• Include contact info

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References

• http//www.techwr-l.com/techwhirl/employmentarticl
  es/followupletters.html