The follow-up letter is a powerful tool often ignored by applicants during job search. Written effectively, it can add weight to your application, particularly when a short list for second or third interviews is being determined by the recruiter. The follow-up letter has several uses:
* A method for continued dialogue between yourself and the recruiter.
* An opportunity to restate your skills and experience.
* Evidence that you have considered the position seriously and wish to reaffirm your interest.
* It’s a proactive document, providing a vehicle for selling yourself further.
* The ability to offer solutions to key issues and objectives discussed during the interview.
The structure for your follow-up letter is similar to your covering letter with some minor variation as follows:
* Commence your letter with a thank you statement in appreciation of the recruiter’s time.
* Include references to key selection criteria discussed during the interview in bullet-point form. This will confirm you have paid attention to the recruiter’s comments.
* Be proactive by offering solutions to key issues and objectives discussed during the interview.
* Reaffirm that you are still interested and challenged by the position. It will reflect your enthusiasm.
Here are some follow-up Letter Tips:
* Write your letter on the same day after the interview.
* Send your follow-up letter on the same day of the interview. It’s important that your letter gets to the recruiter as quickly as possible.
* Fax or e-mail is an ideal method of correspondence, otherwise send it express post.
* Do not courier your letter, as it may appear exaggerated. Normal mail is too slow.
* Write a follow-up letter after each interview stage and not just the first.
The benefit of the follow up letter is that its not commonly used as a technique by job applicants, and by applying this powerful tool, you will certainly have an edge on other applicants.
Effective letter writing for job applications is a chapter contained in my book, “How to Find a Job in 6 Weeks”.The book also contains a sample follow-up letter that I have used and perfected myself.
Copyright 2002 All Rights Reserved
Anthony Ranieri is the author of the highly regarded job search Book,
“How to Find a Job in Six Weeks”
http://www.jobweb.com.au
