Blog Post: The "Thank You" Letter Following an Interview

The purpose of the Thank You letter is to reinforce feelings created during the interview. Brevity must prevail because letters do not win jobs. Your credentials must be clearly established during the interview. Your success will be determined by your ability to respond to questions with polished CAB (Accomplishments) stories, ARQS (Responding to career liabilities) and being able to ask intelligent questions. The Thank You letter should include a one or two sentence paragraph containing no more than 50 words for inclusion in the format. The focus must be on the important issues discussed during the interview, particularly areas where you feel you can make a difference or a significant contribution to the company, division or department. The identical letter can be used with minor variations if several individuals are involved in the interviewing process. I recommend that you send the Thank You letter within 24 hours following the interview.

SAMPLE – Thank You letter

Dear Mr. Nelson:

My sincere thanks for the time, courtesies and consideration extended during my interview on June 30, 2009. I felt the chemistry was good and I am confident that I can make a meaningful contribution to the ABC Company.

I say that because of the extensive experience I gained in counseling people while serving in the personnel and administrative fields in the US Navy. This experience coupled with my education will allow me to easily assimilate the knowledge and procedures needed to be an effective ABC counselor.

Again, Mr. Nelson, my thanks for the time and courtesies extended. I will touch base with you in the near future. Until then, my very best regards.

Sincerely,

First M. Last