What is the most powerful letter often neglected by job hunters?

You have applied for a job and it’s getting close…the field is competitive and not much is separating the applicants. Its going to come down to relationship building and demonstrating your point of difference. You want to give that little bit extra in terms of profile and projection so you can stand out. So what is it you can do that will count?

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 5 key uses: 

1. A method for continued dialogue between yourself and the recruiter
2. An opportunity to restate your skills and experience
3. Evidence that you have considered the position seriously and wish to reaffirm your interest
4. It’s a proactive document, providing a vehicle for selling yourself further
5. 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 5 follow-up letter tips; 

1. Write your letter on the same day after the interview
2. 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
3. e-mail is an ideal method of correspondence
4. Do not courier your letter, as it may appear exaggerated
5. Write a follow-up letter after each interview stage and not just the first.

The benefit of the follow-up letter is that it’s not commonly used as a technique by job applicants, and by applying this powerful tool, you will certainly have an edge on other applicants.

Related articles

• How to Properly Follow Up After an Interview (thecareercloset.com)

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