by Julie Swaner

Most jobseekers understand the importance of sending a thank-you note following an interview. It is the hallmark of professional courtesy and the right thing to do. Whether it has an effect or influence on hiring decisions, however, is not clear. But there is a much more significant reason to send a thank-you note—it can become your best networking tool! 

Most people never view thank-you notes in this way because they are so focused on the immediacy of landing the job for which they have just interviewed. In myopic fashion, they write the note and send it off to XYZ Company. But remember that interviewing is a numbers game, and those interviewing opportunities and contacts can be put to good use, whether you land the job or not.  Maintaining strategic vision about your career trajectory is the single most important factor in your search process.  Why? Because even though a person’s career path may have numerous detours, one-way streets, and blind alleys, thank-you notes become the vehicle for maneuvering the unemployment landscape and maintaining contact with the employment terrain.  Thank-you notes provide a method where you can keep in touch with, nurture, and cultivate an important new contact.

Here’s an example. You’ve just had an interview with a key person in the financial services industry. You’ve shared ideas about the business and have begun a professional relationship with a manager or director who has professional contacts and industry insiders in other companies.  This person could become a new mentor offering help and free advice, regardless of whether you are hired or not. It is there—for free—if you leverage it with finesse, reciprocity, and professionalism.  Think of the contacts this contact has.

Statistical data indicate that 70 percent or more of jobs are found through connections, relationships, and personal contacts—not through job boards, newspapers, or Web sites.  Don’t end the relationship with your contact when you end the interview. You can’t afford to squander any opportunity that comes your way  to build business friendships and relationships.

Need more helpful tips? Contact Julie Swaner, Program Manager, Alumni Career Services: jswaner@sa.utah.edu, (801) 585-5036.

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