How to Write an Informational Interview Follow-up Email
After a valuable informational interview, sending a well-crafted Informational Interview Follow-up Email is crucial for professional networking and career development. This guide will help English learners master the art of writing polite, effective emails that leave a lasting positive impression. Learning to communicate professionally in English is a key skill for success. This article breaks down the essential components, provides useful vocabulary, and offers a practical example to boost your email writing skills.
Table of Contents
Structure of an Informational Interview Follow-up Email
Understanding the structure of an Informational Interview Follow-up Email is key to composing a clear and impactful message. Each part serves a specific purpose in conveying your gratitude and reinforcing your professional demeanor.
1. The Subject Line
The subject line is your first impression and is critical for ensuring your email gets opened. It should be concise and clearly indicate the email's purpose. A clear subject line also helps the recipient quickly recall your interaction.
Formula: Thank You - [Your Name] - [Interviewer's Name] or Follow-up from Informational Interview - [Your Name]
2. The Salutation
Your greeting sets the tone. For a professional context like an informational interview follow-up, a formal salutation is always appropriate. Use the correct title and spelling of the recipient's name.
Usage: Always use "Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. [Last Name]" to maintain a polite and respectful tone.
3. The Body
This is where you convey your main message. Break it down into logical paragraphs to ensure clarity and easy readability.
Opening: Start by expressing sincere gratitude for their time and valuable insights. Clearly reference the meeting to jog their memory.
Key Details: Mention one or two specific points or pieces of advice you gained from the conversation. This demonstrates that you were actively listening and found the discussion beneficial. It also shows your ability to process information effectively.
The "Ask" or Main Point: While this isn't a job application email, you can subtly express interest in staying connected or offer to be of assistance in the future. Avoid directly asking for a job or a referral unless explicitly invited to do so. The goal is to build a long-term professional relationship.
Closing Remarks: Reiterate your thanks. You can also express enthusiasm for applying the advice you received or for potential future connections. This wraps up the body gracefully.
4. The Closing and Signature
The closing phrase and your signature formally end the email. Choose a professional closing and ensure all your necessary contact information is included.
Appropriate Closing Phrases: Sincerely, Best regards, Regards, Yours truly.
Signature: Include your Full Name, Phone Number, Email Address, and optionally, your LinkedIn profile URL.
More: How to Write an Effective Old Job Posting Inquiry Email
Essential Vocabulary
Mastering key phrases can significantly enhance your professional email writing skills. Here's a table of useful vocabulary for your follow-up emails.
| Vocabulary | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Grateful for your time | Thankful for the time spent with you | "I am truly grateful for your time and insights yesterday." |
| Valuable insights | Very useful information or understanding | "Your valuable insights into the industry were incredibly helpful." |
| Key takeaways | Important points learned | "My key takeaway from our conversation was the importance of networking." |
| Deeply appreciate | To be very thankful for something | "I deeply appreciate you sharing your career journey with me." |
| Staying connected | Maintaining communication | "I look forward to staying connected as I navigate my career path." |
| Professional networking | Building relationships in your field | "I'm focusing on professional networking to expand my opportunities." |
| Future opportunities | Potential chances for growth | "I hope our paths cross again for future opportunities." |
| Your expertise | Your specialized knowledge or skill | "I was particularly impressed by your expertise in project management." |
| Pursue | To try to achieve something over a period | "I will definitely pursue the certifications you recommended." |
More: How to Write a Continued Interest Expression Email
Email Example
Here is an example of an effective post-interview email. This template can be adapted for your own needs when sending a professional thank you email after an informational interview.
Context: This email is sent to a professional you met for an informational interview to learn more about their career path, industry, or company.
Subject: Thank You - [Your Name] - Informational Interview
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to sincerely thank you for taking the time to speak with me yesterday. I truly appreciate the opportunity to learn more about your experience at [Company Name] and your insights into [Specific Industry/Role].
I found our discussion on [mention a specific topic or piece of advice, e.g., "the challenges of transitioning into the tech sector" or "the importance of continuous learning"] particularly valuable. Your advice on [mention another specific point, e.g., "developing a strong portfolio"] was very insightful and I am already planning to incorporate it into my career strategy.
I am grateful for your guidance and the resources you shared. Your generosity in sharing your expertise has been incredibly helpful as I explore [Your Career Interest].
I understand your time is valuable, but if any other opportunities or connections arise where you think my skills in [Your Skill] might be relevant, I would be grateful if you kept me in mind. I am keen to continue expanding my professional network and engaging in effective communication.
Thank you again for your time and generosity. I look forward to staying connected and wish you all the best.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [Your LinkedIn Profile URL (Optional)]
More: Salary Expectations Notification Email How To Write Guide
Conclusion
Sending a thoughtful Informational Interview Follow-up Email is more than just good manners; it's a strategic move in career development and an essential part of English communication. By applying the structured approach and incorporating the vocabulary provided, English learners can craft professional, polite emails that leave a lasting positive impression. Remember, practice is key to improving your email writing skills for ESL learners. Personalize each message to reflect your unique conversation and always double-check for clarity and tone. Consistent effort in professional email writing will undoubtedly lead to greater confidence and success in your networking endeavors. As the Purdue Online Writing Lab (Purdue OWL) emphasizes, good email etiquette is crucial for professional interactions.
