Networking

Within 24 hours after meeting an individual for an informational interview, at a career fair, or networking event, you should always send a “thank you” note. Whether it is thanking them for taking the time to speak with you or providing insights to their organization, it is important to show gratitude for their time and will help you start building a professional rapport. After the “thank you” note, you may always want to consider touching base with them at varying intervals for different reasons. Here are some more tips:

• Thank you notes should not be overly long; on an email letter the recipient should not have to scroll down to view the entire letter. Show appreciation and interest in what they shared.
• A separate thank you note should be sent to each person with whom you meet at a career fair or meet and greet. Each note should be personalized to the individual and should attempt to mention different things.
• Reference something specific about your conversation with the individual. This will not only remind them of the encounter, but will help in reminding them who you are the what they spoke about with you specifically.
• If they indicated next steps during your conversation, be sure to complete those and mention such in your note.
• When following up later in the relationship, make sure you are doing so in a respectful time frame and providing them with information that has a purpose.

For more information, access the Networking Thank You Note and Future Correspondence Guide.