Follow-up letters or thank you letters are an important part of the job search process. It is an opportunity to remind employers of your application or interview and to show proper business etiquette. Follow-up letters should be sent after any significant contact with a potential employer. Times in which a follow-up letter should be sent include:

• After hearing back from an information-request letter.
• Following a job, graduate admission, or scholarship interview.
• Following an informational interview.
• After a significant phone conversation.
• After a brief networking meeting.

While often overlooked, the follow-up letter is an opportunity to thank the interviewer for their time and to remind them of your interest in the position and your unique qualifications.

The thank you letter should be sent immediately following the interview because you will still be on the interviewer's mind. Thank you letters in response to an information request should be sent as soon as the information is received. A timely thank you letter makes a good impression. Even if you are not ultimately hired for the position, good relations can provide networking opportunities in the future.

See follow-up letter format

See follow-up letter sample

General Tips:

• Send the follow-up letters in a timely manner.
• Use an accepted business format such as full-block style.
• Personalize the letter by addressing it to a specific individual.
• Use non-sexist language.
• Tailor your letters to the company and the requirements of the position.
• Vary your writing.
• Limit your letter to one page.
• Match your stationery and resume in size, weight, and shade.
• Proofread for errors.

Make an appointment to discuss your letters with Michelle in Career Services.