email

Other Job-Search Messages

writing a thank-you message   After an interview it is courteous to write a thank-you message, whether or not you are interested in the job. If you are interested, the message can help your case. It singles you out from the competition and shows your interest in the job, and as the Communication Matters feature on page 345 indicates, not sending a thank-you note could determine whether you are offered a job.

Such messages are usually short. They begin with an expression of gratefulness. They say something about the interview, the job, or the company. They take care of any additional business (such as submitting information requested). Then they end on a goodwill note—perhaps a hopeful look to the next step in the negotiations. While you can send your message by mail, an email will quickly convey your thanks. The following message illustrates:

Sending a thank-you note shows professionalism and good manners.

Dear Mr. Woods:

Thank you for talking with me yesterday about the finance internship. I enjoyed learning more about Sony Corporation of America and the financial analyst position.

As you requested, I have enclosed samples of the financial analysis I developed as a class project. If you need anything more, please let me know.

I look forward to the possibility of discussing employment with you soon.

Sincerely,

constructing a follow-up to an application   When a prospective employer is late in responding or you receive another offer with a time deadline, you may need to write a follow-up message. Employers are often just slow, but sometimes they lose the application. Whatever the explanation, a follow-up message may help to produce action.

Such a message is a form of routine inquiry. It can use the need to make a job decision or some other good explanation as the reason for writing. The following message is an example:

Dear Ms. Yang:

Because the time is approaching when I must make a job decision, could you please tell me the status of my application with you?

You may recall that you interviewed me in your office November 7. You wrote me November 12 indicating that I was among those you had selected for further consideration.

SAIC remains one of the organizations I would like to consider in making my career decision. I would very much appreciate hearing from you by December 3.

Sincerely,

planning the job acceptance   Job acceptances are favorable response messages with an extra amount of goodwill. Because the message should begin directly, a “yes” answer in the beginning is appropriate. The remainder of the message should contain a confirmation of the starting date and place and comments about the work, the company, the interview—whatever you would say if you were face to face with the reader. The message need not be long. This one does the job well:

Dear Ms. Garcia:

Yes, I accept your offer of employment as a junior analyst. After my first interview with you, I was convinced that Allison-Caldwell was the organization for me. I am delighted that you think I am right for Allison-Caldwell.

Following your instructions, I will be in your Toronto headquarters on May 28 at 8:30 am ready to work for you. Thank you for this opportunity.

Sincerely,