If you already sent your resume and cover letter and have waited for several days and still failed to receive a reply, then it is time for you to send a follow up letter. Sending a follow up letter is important because it allows you to inquire about the status of your job application and at the same time inform your possible employer about your interest in the position you are applying to. Below are some important points you need to remember when writing your job search follow up letter.
• First of all, you can prepare your letter either through email or by traditional letter. If you have the email address of the company or the human resources department, it is more practical to send a follow up letter by email because of the convenience and ease of access. Use the subject line to write the position you are applying for and your name.
• When you are writing your follow up letter, you must treat it as though you are writing a cover letter. Include all the basic things that you have incorporated in your cover letter such as the company address, the date, and salutation. It has to be formal and contain all the elements of a professional business letter.
• Make the body of your follow up letter direct and straight to the point. Include the date you sent your application and the position you are applying for. This is also your opportunity to reiterate your passion for the job position, restate why you are qualified for the job, and the skills you have that can be an asset to the company. Always remember when you are writing a follow up letter, a formal yet sincere tone must be maintained to show that you are professional and highly interested in the job. Politely ask about the status of your job application and inquire about when they can send you some feedback regarding your queries.
• It is also important to include a copy of your resume when sending your follow up letter because hiring managers are busy and they may not have the time to search for your old records. This is also your opportunity to put your best foot forward and allow the hiring personnel to directly evaluate your application on the spot.
• It is important to always proofread your follow up letter before you send it to check for misspellings and other grammatical errors. Follow up letters are important and you cannot afford to make any blunders that may affect your professional image and convey a bad impression to your potential employer.
Sending a follow up letter is vital for the success of your job search. The majority of potential employers often invite applicants for interviews if they have submitted follow up letters. This is because a follow-up letter shows that the candidate is highly interested and serious about the job, which puts them ahead in the employment race.
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Interesting and helpful Candace. However, when you get an automated response stating only if you are selected you will be contacted should you still send a follow up letter?