by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: August 13, 2008   Last Updated: December 13, 2011

A job interview can be a very stressful situation. As the job applicant you want to make a good impression, have all the appropriate answers and of course, land the job. Once the interview in completed there is often a sense of relief, at least that part is done.

However, the person who is conducting the interview is in a bit of a stressful situation as well. The process has truly just begun. The interviewer will have to compare notes, check references, and perhaps bring candidates in for a second interview. A poor hiring choice is a reflector of the person who conducts the interview and does the hiring.  You have an opportunity to thank them for their time and consideration and once again remind them why you are the best candidate for the job.

Even if the position is given to someone else you want the interviewer to remember the professionalism and extra care you took, not just to write a quick thank you note, but a letter. It shows respect and when other opportunities come along it may be the letter that reminds them to give you a call.

A thank you letter shows a certain sign of respect. It acknowledges the time and thought that the interviewer had to put into the process.

~ Show knowledge about the company
Use the thank you letter so show some knowledge of the company and its direction. Most companies have a mission statement. Using a quote from the mission statement lets the interviewer know that you took time to learn about and research the company. It can be impressive.

~ Remedy any interview misconceptions
There may be some questions that you are not completely satisfied with the answers you provided in the interview.. You can address this by revamping your answer and presenting them is the letter. You don’t want to say your answer was wrong, but you can certainly add some detail upon further thought.

~ Illustrate how you can increase the bottom line of the company
This takes some practice, but once you get the hang of it, you will earn jobs. When you can clearly demonstrate how your work will increase revenue, it is hard to say “No, we do not want you to make us more money.”

~ Demonstrates follow through
A thank you letter acknowledges that you understand the hiring process and know its not over when the interview ends. It also shows appreciation for the interviewers time and consideration.

~ Displays a different skill
This is an opportunity to show a little creativity and writing skills. There are no real formal rules for a thank you letter, so step up a little.

Anytime you have a chance to make another good impression, do it. A thank you letter is another way to make a good impression.

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