Follow-up Letters

These letters can make all the difference in being called for an interview or having your file stay with an organization for a long time. When you have been in continued touch with the recruitment officers, they are more likely to remember you and call you for an interview. As most firms use computerized data bases for finding candidates, keeping in touch with the recruitment officer is an excellent method of keeping your file active.

Letters of Continuing Interest
These letters keep your file active and should be sent every three to six months to employers who have you on their data bases. If any changes have occurred in your resume, it is important to send employer's letters to document these changes. Also, remember to inform employers if you have accepted another position as it is in your interest to maintain contacts and relationships.

Follow-up Letters to an Interview
After an interview, a follow-up letter should be sent immediately to thank a recruiter for the opportunity to meet them and learn about the organization and position they are looking to fill. Use this opportunity to send additional information that is related to the interview and would further your chances. This letter also gives you an opportunity to clarify or correct an error during the interview. Ensure that the letter is enthusiastic and optimistic of your chances of getting the job.

Formatting Notes
Adhere to being a thorough professional and never send any photocopied mater or handwritten materials. Be precise in addressing your letters to a specific person, using 'Dear Sir/Madam' when the name is not known and never 'To whom it may concern' which will likely ensure that you never get the job. It is acceptable to send your resume to more than one person in the same organization, but you must inform both officers by adding a 'cc' at the end of the letter; for example, 'cc. Mr. Steve Brown, Manager, International Marketing.' Be observant and use titles such as Dr., when the recruiting officer is a PhD or President, when addressing the head of the organization. Avoid using abbreviated terms such as P.O., St., Ave., etc in international addresses. Always make a notation of the items enclosed, using the abbreviation 'Encl'; for example; 'Encl.: Resume, application form, two reference letters.'

Conclusion
Follow-up letters are critical to the success of your application and must not be overlooked. Use these letters to your advantage as another opportunity to sell yourself.