Ivy Eyes Editing: Writing a Follow-up Email

[IvyEyesEditing]

Are you an MBA student looking to follow up on the initial interview or phone conversation with Disney, Goldman or Deloitte? Are you a college applicant that would like to thank your interviewer for his/her time? Or are you a job applicant hoping to land an interview, after a conversation at a networking event?

The follow-up email is becoming accepted etiquette, not just in the job or internship interview process, but also in the college and graduate admissions process. The follow-up email provides an opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your interviewer, and even tip the scales. With this in mind, we have put together some helpful hints for writing an effective follow-up email:

-Keep it crisp and direct. Because follow-up emails are now so commonplace, the tendency for most interviewers will be to skim through your email. Don't waste your time with phrases like 'I believe I could excel...' and other formulaic niceties.

-Reference specific parts of your interview. You want to use this email to build on a dialogue, and make your exchange more than just another interview. Make a distinctive impression.

-Structure: Think of it as a condensed cover letter. Opening line (thank you). Paragraph (insert something very novel and reflective). Closing (thank you--looking forward). Signature.

-Avoid insubstantial drivel and meaningless email etiquette (Thank you in advance for your time and consideration/ I am a self-starter or self-motivator). Say something new, something fresh.

-Don't repeat your resume bullets or your cover letter--it's time to show you can reflect, analyze and think on your feet.

-Time is of the essence. Email your contact within 24 hrs so that you stay fresh in their memory. If you're on the fence, an impeccably written email may (emphasis on may) cause your interviewer to reconsider your candidacy.

-Make sure your full contact information is clearly listed in your signature. If you are sending an updated copy of a document, like a resume, make sure that the document is clearly labeled to make your recipient's job easier. Show that you have put yourself in your interviewer's shoes cannot hurt your candidacy.

-Check for typos. Always.

We hope these considerations help you as you write the dreaded but crucial follow-up email!!!

Sincerely,
Paul
Ivy Eyes Editing
www.ivyeyesediting.com