How to Write a Follow-Up Letter

If you followed our advice from last week’s article, you left your interview feeling confident that you will be hearing from the hiring manager soon. Way to go! But you aren’t exactly starting on Monday… yet. You absolutely must send a follow-up letter to the hiring manager, thanking him or her for their time. Whether you choose to send your regards via email or in a hand written note is a personal preference. Either is effective, but 89% of hiring managers prefer a personalized email. We are happy to help you craft the perfect follow up email, from subject line to closing…

The Subject Line
The content of this tiny, yet somehow intimidating box, is what ultimately gets your email opened and read. No pressure. If you’re having difficulty crafting the perfect intro, we have put together a list of the most effective one-liners to get your email the attention it deserves. Try using one of the following…

1. Thank You [Name]!
2. Thanks for your time today!
3. Excited to learn more about [Company].
4. Appreciate your advice and consideration.
5. Inspired to work at [Company Name]

The Content
Now, you should re-emphasize why you believe you are a great candidate for the [specific role] at [specific company] and reinforce your learnings about the job and thoughts about the interview.

“Hello [First Name],

Thank you for taking the time to talk yesterday. It was a pleasure to learn more about [Company] and how you approach [Industry] with [Choose between either an innovative strategy you discussed, or a project you would be a part of.] I am very eager and excited about the opportunity to explore a career with the [Specific Team].
[Discuss a specific detail of the interview. In this sample we chose corporate culture.] I agree with your philosophy on creating a supporting environment by surrounding yourself with incredible people. For me, [Company Name] is an opportunity to develop meaningful relationships that align with the company value. I think it is rare to find a company whose employees reflect its culture and values so closely.
I appreciate the opportunity to share my background and interest in [Position] with you. I believe my experience with [Industry, Skill, or Product] aligns perfectly with what your team is looking for, and I am eager to show you. [If applicable…] I thought I would share a few links to projects that I mentioned during our conversation [Insert Hyperlinks]. Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Kindest Regards,
[Signature]

Acceptable Closings
1. Best,
2. Regards, -or- Kindest Regards,
3. Thank You,
4. Sincerely,

After the first follow-up, you may send a second email 7-10 days later. Keep the second follow-up short and be sure to reiterate your enthusiasm and qualifications. Include a line at the end of your email to the effect of, “Please let me know if you need any additional information from me.”

Landing the job is about distinguishing yourself from the other candidates. You can do this in many ways – articulate yourself well, prepare an outstanding resume, have the relevant experience, create a personal connection, and follow it all with a personalized email or letter that conveys your value and passion. Above all, DON’T FORGET TO SPELL CHECK.