Covering Every Step: From Cover Letters to Follow-Ups

Writing cover letters

How to connect with employers and keep the conversation going

First Impressions Count: Mastering Cover Letter Etiquette

First Impressions Matter

Your cover letter — whether mailed, emailed, or submitted online with an application — is often your very first written contact with an employer. And in hiring, first impressions tend to last.

Follow the Employer’s Instructions

Always send your materials in the format requested. If the employer asks for:

  • Mail or fax → send a mailed or faxed copy

  • Email → send an email with your résumé attached

  • Phone call first → call before sending documents

Not following directions sends an unintended signal: that you may be unwilling or unable to follow instructions.

Handwritten Letters: Think Twice

Unless your handwriting is exceptionally neat and professional, stick to typed or word-processed letters. Poor or flashy handwriting risks sending your résumé straight to the trash.

Professional Tone is Key

No matter the method, your first message should read like a well-crafted cover letter: brief, concise, engaging, professional, and courteous.

Using Letters Beyond the First Contact

  • If asked to call first, draft a strong cover letter beforehand and use it as a script or reference.

  • If the conversation goes well, follow up with a second letter highlighting the key points you discussed, along with your résumé.

There’s No One-Size-Fits-All

A single “perfect” cover letter doesn’t exist. But by adapting to each situation and employer’s instructions, you can write with impact and improve your chances of getting that interview invitation.

From Thank You to Job Offer: The Power of Follow-Up Letters

Why Follow-Up Letters Matter

Whether your interview went well or not, always follow up. Rarely is a job offered on the spot, so a thank-you letter keeps you engaged with the employer and shows professionalism.

Managing the Post-Interview “Letdown”

It’s natural to feel a dip after an interview — you’ve invested energy and now face uncertainty. Writing a follow-up letter can help ease those feelings:

  • It gives closure and a sense of action

  • It keeps communication open with the employer

  • It shifts your focus toward the next step, reducing stress

Benefits of Sending a Follow-Up Letter

  • Share thoughts or points you forgot to mention during the interview

  • Reinforce your qualifications and enthusiasm while the meeting is still fresh

  • Show gratitude and professionalism, which employers notice and value

  • Increase your chances of being remembered for future roles, even if not selected this time

What to Include in a Follow-Up Letter

Keep it brief and professional. Your goals should be to:

  1. Thank the employer for the opportunity

  2. Provide any information they requested

  3. Highlight the strongest points from your interview

  4. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and organization

  5. Invite further contact at their convenience

Mail or Email?

Either works — the important thing is timeliness and tone. The letter should be a warm, professional reminder of your qualifications and interest.

Skip Handwriting (in Most Cases)

Unless your handwriting is exceptionally neat and professional, type or word-process your follow-up letter. Poor handwriting can undo a strong interview impression.

No One-Size-Fits-All

There isn’t a single “perfect” follow-up letter for every situation. Adapt your message to the conversation you had, reinforce your value, and show gratitude. Done well, your letter could be the bridge to a second interview — or even an offer.