When should you send a resume follow up letter, and what should it include? Many people aren’t sure just how long they should wait after applying for an advertised position, or even what they should include when they write the letter. Some people don’t send one at all, but it is a good idea if you want to remain in the mind of a potential employer. Once you have turned in or submitted a resume, a follow up letter is essential. Below, you will find helpful tips that will hopefully assist you in getting hired for the position you want.
How long should you wait after submitting a resume to send a follow up letter?
Some people hesitate about sending a follow up letter too soon after submitting their resume, for fear that they are merely pestering a potential employer. However, you may feel that if you wait for too lengthy a period, the job will be filled. Generally, waiting for one week after you have submitted your resume is enough time for those hiring to have settled down from the influx of applicants. Once you have submitted your resume, send the follow up letter in about a week. If there are several positions open, you may want to wait for up to two weeks, but no longer.
After sending your resume, why send a follow up letter?
By doing so, you not only demonstrate professionalism, but you also let an employer know that you are genuinely interested in the position. Sending a letter shows you are enthusiastic about the job, and that you are ambitious and motivated. It also helps keep you fresh in an employers mind, so that they don’t forget you if your resume gets buried in the pile.
What information should you include?
First of all, address your follow up letter to the same person who accepted your resume. Mention the exact date you sent or delivered the resume, and what specific position you are applying for. Also, express your thanks to them for accepting your resume and taking the time to read your follow up letter.
Demonstrate to the employer your sincere interest in the position, and ask if it is still available or has been filled. Many people ask for an interview in their follow up letter, as this further proves to an employer how serious you are about the job. Include your phone number and email address so they can contact you if they desire to set up an interview.
When you are ready to send in your resume follow up letter, you may want to attach a copy of your resume so that it is handy when the employer reads your letter. Also, always send your follow up letter through regular mail, or in the body of an email and not as an attachment. Many employers prefer information in the body, so that they can read it immediately without opening up and downloading attachments.
