Networking is a very important tool to use when looking for a job or expanding your business contacts.
When someone takes the time to speak with you, grants you an interview, or invites you to a networking event, you should send them a thank you note. This will not only help you to remain in the memory of that person but also be courteous.
In this article, we will examine how to write effective networking thank you letter.
Networking Letter Tips
- Keep it brief and too the point. It is common for important people to be busy. Don’t waste someone’s time with a lot of unnecessary prose.
- Be sure to remain in touch without putting too much pressure on the individual. Tell them you’ll be connecting with them on LinkedIn or Facebook. Ensure that they are comfortable with a continuing relationship.
- Don’t wait too long to send your thanks. You should send the letter within three days after the meeting, invitation, or interview if you want the person to remember you.
- Never send a generic thank you note. Describe the individual or event specifically instead. After a networking event, if you have 50 notes to send, you’re doing it wrong.
- It is important to avoid the temptation to be overly familiar, especially when sending a thank you letter after a job interview. Your note should be professional and pleasant.
- In the same way that you should avoid sounding familiar when sending a networking letter, you should also avoid sounding desperate. You should appear confident and add value to the relationship.
- Some people prefer handwritten notes because they give the note a more personal feel. Make sure your handwriting is clear. Email is a perfectly acceptable method of communication.
Example 1 Networking Event Dear Name, I wanted to extend a quick thank you for inviting me to (name of networking event). In addition to meeting several great contacts, I had a great time at the conference. We had a great time chatting about some ideas, and I hope we can get together again. We could meet for lunch one day next week. Thank you again, and I hope you will keep me in mind for future endeavors. I will do the same on my end. I'll connect with you on LinkedIn soon so I can help you connect with some of my partners. I look forward to speaking with you soon. Sincerely, Your Name
Example 2 Job Interview Dear Name of Interviewer, As I have learned more about the position's requirements, I feel even more confident that I am a perfect fit. I believe that customer service is at the heart of every business, and I will do everything in my power to ensure that every customer has a positive experience. It was a pleasure meeting you. Feel free to contact me if you have any other questions. Again, thank you for your time. Sincerely, Your Name
More Networking Thank You Letters…
Thank You Letters for Meetings
Customer Thank You Letters
Mentor Thank You Letters
The notes are short and to the point, as you can see. Especially to someone who receives several such letters a week, you don’t want to send a long note. Make your point as concisely as possible.
Making the most of each networking opportunity is as simple as sending a thank you letter.