What should I include in my body paragraph for a follow-up letter?

The body paragraph should be very short and should explain that you would like to meet with the employer in person to discuss the job. The paragraph should also state briefly why you would like to work for the company and how you can help. Lastly, the paragraph should explain that you are willing to resubmit your résumé and cover letter or application, in person if necessary.

Here is an example of a body paragraph for a follow-up letter:

I am looking forward to meeting with you to discuss the welder apprentice position and how I can help A & D Industries. I feel that my years of welding experience will allow me to be a valuable member of your team. If you have not received my résumé and cover letter, I would be happy to resubmit them or drop them off in person.

What should I include in the body paragraph for my thank you letter?

The body paragraph should be very short. The paragraph should explain that you understand the challenges of the position but are willing and eager to work for the company. Lastly, the paragraph should explain how you will help the company.

Here is an example of a body paragraph for a thank you letter:

I realize that the welder apprentice position can be challenging because of the long hours and hectic work environment. However, I am sure that my years of welding and experience working in fast-paced jobs will allow me to excel at A & D Industries.

What should I include in my closing in a follow-up letter?

The closing should provide your phone and email contact, and you should sign you name. Here is an example of a closing:

If you have any questions, please call me at 765-123-4567. You may also email me at kmjones @ gmail.com.


Sincerely,

/signed/

Karl M. Jones


What should I include in my closing for a thank you letter?

The closing for a thank you letter should explain that it was a pleasure meeting with the employer to discuss the job. The closing should also state that you look forward to hearing back from the employer about what to do next. Lastly, you should provide your phone and email contact information and sign your name.

Here is an example of a closing:

It was a pleasure meeting with you and learning more about the welder apprentice position at A & D Industries. I look forward to hearing from you about the position. If you have any questions, please call me at 765-123-4567. You may also email me at kmjones @ gmail.com.


Sincerely,

/signed/


Karl M. Jones


Click here to download the PDF file containing sample résumés and employment letters.

References:
Job Search Tools: Resumes, Applications, and Cover Letters by Ronald C. Mendlin and Marc Polonsky with J. Michael Farr. The Putting the Bars Behind You Series. Indianapolis: JIST, 2000.

Purdue OWL Cover Letter and Résumé resources: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/.

Some of this information is also adapted from Jobbankuse.com: http://www.jobbankusa.com.