A Beginner’s Guide to Job Search Correspondence

In every job search, correspondence introduces and connects you with potential employers. Most importantly, it's a tool you can tailor to land your desired job. It must sound professional but short because recruiters are busy and may not have time to read long messages. Here's a handy guide to the types of job search correspondences.

What is Job Search Correspondence?

Job search correspondence is any message sent while hunting for a job. These can be through email or printed on paper and serve as a record of your conversations with recruiters. They also demonstrate your skills in communication and if there's room for improvement.

Learning to compose these properly is important because you'll write them a lot. You also want to be polite because good manners create a space where the recruiter can comfortably interact with you. Finally, your professional writing style may make you stand out enough to push you further for consideration.

Types of Correspondence for Job Search

1. Cover letters

   A cover letter is your introduction and the primary way to show your personality. Not only is this a way for you to list why you're the best for the job, but your writing style will also enable recruiters to determine if you're a good fit for the company.

   You want the recruiter to want to interview you, so always make sure to send a cover letter along with your resume. Cover letters must say why you're interested in the position, your unique skills, and some of your achievements. According to FinancesOnline, 53% of employers prefer candidates who include cover letters with their resumes.

2. Thank you notes

   You usually send thank you notes after an interview. You can use them to explain anything said during the meeting or provide information you may have forgotten. Be sure to send a thank you note after every interview that reinforces your wish for the position. It creates goodwill towards the company and is a show of good manners.

3. Withdrawal letters

   These types of correspondence express that you're withdrawing from the hiring process. You can tell the recruiter your reasons, but don't say that you found a "better job" or got accepted at a "better company." You can still tell them that you took another offer, don't imply that they're the lesser company, and that's why you're withdrawing.

4. Rejection letters

   You send a rejection letter whenever you want to say no to a job offer. State your reasons as to why you're refusing the offer, but don't belittle the company. For example, if it's a matter of salary, you can say it didn't meet your expected range. As with all other types of correspondence, it's still important to be polite and professional.

   Don't forget to thank the recruiter for their time and say that you're grateful for the chance they gave you.

5. Acceptance letters

   You send an acceptance letter if you want to accept a job offer. Show how excited you are and how you look forward to working with the company. You can also use this letter to repeat your starting date and clarify the terms outlined in the offer, so everyone is on the same page.

Good Manners Open Doors

Polite and professional correspondences show companies what type of person you are. Even if you don't get the job, they could consider you for a future opening or recommend you to another company. Even if your letters are brief, good manners will shine through and may make you stand out.

Practice all types of correspondence as you look for your next job through.