Several situations in the job search process require a thank you letter such as:

• After an informational interview, company visit, or other career exploration activity
• When someone provides you with job search assistance (e.g., refers you to an employer, provides a network contact, or speaks on your behalf to a prospective employer)
• After an internship or job interview
  

Letters Accepting a Job Offer

Follow the same professional writing tips (discussed above) when you write a letter to accept a job or internship offer. Within the body of your letter, you should:

• Accept the offer (refer to an earlier phone or personal conversation or an offer letter)
• Restate your job title, agreed upon compensation, travel plans, if any, expected start date and any other pertinent information
• Express your appreciation and enthusiasm about joining their organization

Letters Declining a Job Offer

For positions that you decline; it is good practice to speak with the employer and follow-up with a professional letter. Within the body of your letter, you should:

• Communicate your appreciation for their offer
• Decline the offer graciously and express the difficulty of making this decision
• Thank the employer once again for his or her time and effort
  
  

Letters In Response to Rejections

If you don't receive an offer or if you receive a letter of rejection from an organization that you would love to work for, write a letter to express your continued interest in future opportunities and to thank them for their time and effort. This type of letter can be challenging to write but can make the difference in order to keep the door open for future opportunities with that particular organization.

Additional Tips for a Successful Thank You Letter:

• Send a personalized letter to each individual within 24 hours (preferably before any hiring decisions have been made)
• Sending an email to the employer is faster than mailing so you may want to send a copy of the letter via email and also a hardcopy in the mail
• Keep your letter short and straightforward
• Reiterate your skills and qualifications, particularly those pertinent to the position
• Mention a specific topic or issue that was discussed during your interview in order to refresh the interviewer's memory of you and your conversation
• Provide any information that was overlooked during the interview or that was specifically requested by the interviewer
• Communicate your continued interest and enthusiasm for the opportunity

Fewer than 15% of job seekers follow up with thank you letters, so don't miss this chance to get a leg up on your competition!

Sample Letters

Thank You Letters
Letter Accepting a Job Offer
Letter Declining a Job Offer
Letter in Response to Rejections