Networking Letters

As you begin working your net of personal and professional contacts, you may find it advantageous to send a networking follow-up letter. Part thank you letter and part sales pitch, this letter allows you to keep yourself in the mind of your contacts.

To write one:

• In your first paragraph, refer to/thank the contact for meeting with you. Note the date of your meeting. Make mention of the contact who originally referred you to this person.


• In your second paragraph, note again what kind of work you are seeking. As you pinpoint your preferred type/level of position and industry, weave in those key words I keep mentioning, along with your 2-3 strongest and most relevant skills.


• In your third paragraph, summarize in crisp sentences or bulleted statements some of the highlights or key issues in your resume. Do not repeat your resume, but restate the important points in new ways.


• In your closing paragraph, indicate when you will be following up next with this person. And, of course, thank them again for their time and energy on your behalf.