While your resume is your primary marketing tool, correspondence such as thank yous and letters of acceptance are key supporting materials and create an overall picture of who you are. They convey your professionalism and can make a difference in your job search.
It is important to express your gratitude for consideration in a job opening or for the opportunity to learn more about an organization. Always send a thank you to individuals who have given you their time and attention. While a typed letter is preferable, a thank you letter can be handwritten (if your handwriting is legible and neat) or emailed. If emailing a thank you letter, format the email just as you would a typed letter with initial caps, proper grammar, and appropriate salutation and signature line. Regardless, this letter should be sent within 24 hours of your contact with the individual – the sooner, the better!
Be sure to:
Sample Thank You Letter
Street Address
City, State Zip Code
May 29, 20XX
Dr. Diane Johnson
Office of Student Life
XYZ Junior College
111 College Road
Somewhere, USA 02466
Dear Dr. Johnson:
Thank you for interviewing me yesterday for the Assistant Program Director position. I enjoyed meeting you and learning more about XYZ’s student programs.
Even before my interview began, I was very impressed with the welcoming atmosphere at XYZ Junior College. That experience, along with what I learned in my interview, has strengthened my interest in your position. I feel that my academic and internship experiences have given me unique qualifications that are a perfect match for both XYZ Junior College and the position of Assistant Program Director. My experiences as an intern in the Office of Student Activities have honed my programming, conflict resolution and organizational capabilities that match the job description perfectly. My experiences as a very active member of various student organizations have made me very enthusiastic for the responsibilities you described. The warm and positive atmosphere on XYZ’s campus matches my reputation as a friendly, positive team player.
I am very interested in your position and in working for the Office of Student Life at XYZ Junior College. Please feel free to call me at (617) 555-1212 if I can provide you with any additional information.
Sincerely,
Any Student
A letter of inquiry (also known as a prospecting letter) can be an effective way to explore possibilities and gain information about an organization or even uncover hidden job opportunities. A letter of inquiry should outline your strongest qualifications. Within the letter be sure to indicate your source of information and do some personal marketing. You can request an interview and should express appreciation for the reader’s consideration.
Be sure to:
Sample Inquiry/Prospecting Letter
Street Address
Newton, MA 02466
September 29, 20XX
Mr. Timothy Ward
Director of Human Resources
Bank of America
880 Main Street
Waltham, MA 02451
Dear Mr. Ward:
I read your company’s description in Lasell University's Handshake site and would like to inquire about opportunities in your management training program. I am seeking employment in the banking industry in the Saint Joseph area.
My interest in finance began in high school and developed through a variety of internships during college. My internship with a local Skokie bank convinced me to pursue a career in banking. When I researched the top banks in St. Joseph, Nodaway Bank emerged as having a strong market position, an excellent training program, and a reputation for excellent customer service; and I believe you provide the kind of professional environment to which I could consistently contribute.
I have enclosed my resume for your consideration. While my education and experience match your
website’s list of preferred qualifications for your management trainees, they do not tell the whole story. I know from internship supervisor feedback that I have the financial skills and motivation needed to build a successful career in banking. Through that internship experience, I also acquired confidence in my career direction and in my abilities to perform competently and professionally.
Although I know you must have a very busy schedule, I would appreciate a few minutes of your time. I will call you next week to discuss possible employment opportunities at National. In the meantime, if you prefer to contact me, my number is (816) 555-1212. I look forward to talking with you.
Sincerely,
Any Student
Acceptance, withdrawal, and rejection correspondence share in common the fact that they are written after you have procured an offer of employment. It is acceptable to send such correspondence via e-mail, but be sure to retain a professional tone in all communication.
