Most People Don\'t Fully Follow Up When Job Searching

Boston — April 12
Although many job-seekers send thank-you letters and e-mails after a personal interview, far fewer people follow up on other critical job-search processes such as after networking and informational meetings, calls from executive recruiters, and submitting resumes, according to ClearRock, a Boston-based outplacement and coaching firm.

“Although most people send thank-you letters, e-mails, or note cards after a personal interview, many job-seekers fail to follow up on at least one of the other processes integral to successful employment searches,” said Annie Stevens, ClearRock managing partner.

With college and high school graduations coming up, this is prime time for job-hunting. Job-seekers should be following up after:

• A personal interview
• A telephone interview
• An informational interview
• A networking meeting
• Receiving a call from an executive recruiter
• Receiving a reference for a position
• Sending a cover letter and a resume directly to a potential employer

Handwritten thank-you notes often will create the best and most lasting impression.

“It's rare that someone sends you a handwritten communication in a business environment, so handwritten notes and letters will be remembered better,” Stevens said.

But thank-yous do not necessarily have to be handwritten — or even written on paper.

Some people are uncomfortable with sending handwritten notes, especially after a job interview.

“Most people take a conservative approach and send e-mails or typewritten letters,” Stevens said. "When in doubt about hand-writing a card, err on the conservative side and type or e-mail it. Also, try to adapt the communication to the organization or person you’ve spoken or met with. If it’s an e-mail type of culture, then e-mail your thank-you note."

One benefit of sending e-mails or letters after job interviews, rather than brief handwritten notes, is that they will better enable you to succinctly recap your qualifications for the position.

Job-seekers most often fail to follow up after submitting resumes to potential employers.