How to Write a Professional Thank You Card
After completing a job or school interview, it is appropriate and professional to send a thank you card. The card should be well written, concise and sent in a timely manner. If done correctly, the note will remind the interviewer of the interviewee's candidacy and leave the the impression that the candidate is responsible, thoughtful and thorough.
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Instructions
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Format the letter appropriately. If the letter is typed, it should be formatted as a business letter. If the letter is handwritten, the format can be more casual, and just include the salutation, body of the letter, and closing. Address the recipient using a respectful salutation. For example, "Dear Mr. Jones," is an appropriate way to begin a professional thank you card. First names are too casual and should be avoided.
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Remind the recipient where, when and why the meeting took place, says the University of Illinois at Springfield. Explain to the interviewer who you are and why you were asked for an interview. For example, "Thank you so much for meeting with me on June 2 to discuss the middle school teaching position." Next, thank the person for their time and attention.
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Remind the interviewer why you are an excellent choice for the job or school in question. Career Services at Virginia Tech explains that it is important to be as specific as possible about what is appealing about the job, so the candidate looks educated and prepared. This section should also explain why the candidate is a good fit for the group. For example, "I am fully dedicated to my work as an educator. I really enjoyed learning about the outreach programs the school has for families in need. I hope I can have the chance to work with your enthusiastic staff."
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Close the note politely and respectfully, and again thank the recipient for his time and attention. For example, "I really enjoyed meeting you and was glad we could talk about this job opportunity. I look forward to hearing from you soon." Be upbeat and positive, again emphasizing that this job or school is the perfect fit.
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Send the note within two business days of the interview, says Career Services at Virginia Tech. A well-timed thank you note will remind the recipient of the interview and leave an excellent impression. Career Services at Virginia Tech also suggests that if the candidate is unsure about the next step of the hiring process, it is appropriate to ask when he will hear from the interviewer in the thank-you note.
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Tips & Warnings
An email thank-you note is only appropriate when sending a note on stationery is not possible. When sending an electronic thank you card, keep the language professional.
References
- Photo Credit stationary image by Leonid Nyshko from Fotolia.com
