MightyRecruiterSometimes you can’t wait for top talent to waltz your way. Instead, you need to seek out passive candidates to fill an important position. Because these candidates have jobs already, you need to understand how to write an engaging, personalized reach out message that piques their interest and entices them to start a conversation with you.
As you can see from the second interview letter sample below, it’s smart to get to the point immediately. State that you’d like to invite the candidate for round two, then explain why. This last point is particularly important because it makes the candidate feel valued, which can in turn make them feel engaged and interested in your company. Similarly, it gives them some insight into what your organization deems important.
Next, you need to provide clear instructions for the next steps. Specifically, you must list the interview location as well as available times to interview – or provide a link to a calendar application. Should you choose to utilize the latter option during your hiring process, be prepared for technical difficulties or general confusion.
Lastly, close on a positive note. Observe that the second interview letter sample that follows ends with a brief pleasantry. Job seeking is stressful, and your candidate should feel excited to meet with you again.
Second Interview Letter Sample
Hi Kingsley,
We enjoyed talking to you last week, and we’d like to move forward with a second interview for the Helpline Manager role. Though you have many notable accomplishments, we’re most impressed with your history of exceptional customer retention rates.
Let’s discuss the next steps. Please prepare for a two-hour interview at our office, which is at the following address:
10 Main Street, Block B
Darling, California 95401
Free parking is available next door at 12 Main Street.
We would like you to meet with the hiring manager and head of customer service, Stacey Anne, as soon as possible. Her availability next week includes Monday from 11 AM to 3 PM, Tuesday after 4 PM, Wednesday from 9 AM to 1 PM, Thursday from 11 AM to 3 PM, and Friday after 2 PM.
Please let me know which date and time works best for your schedule.
We look forward to seeing you again, Kingsley!
Best regards,
Cecily Alpdemir
Want to use this letter?
Let’s take a look at the second interview letter sample. Notice that it’s straightforward. It immediately tells Kingsley that he is up for a second round interview then explains why. Then it provides availability for a next interview. Finally, it ends with a kind sentiment. The explanation provided in this paragraph is a great formula for writing your own strong second interview message.
Now we’ll do a deeper analysis. Not only does the letter get to the point quickly, but it also states the job title. Though your candidate should know the job title by now, it’s wise to avoid assuming you’re on the same page. Job searching is exhausting, and Kingsley has probably applied to dozens of jobs.
Next, see how the second interview letter sample provides specific times for the next interview. Look further and notice how it also shares the organization’s interest in completing the next interview quickly. This is important too. The candidate needs to understand your timeline as well.
Similarly, it clearly states the address and gives details regarding parking. Both of these pieces of information are critical to the interviewee being able to make an informed decision about their availability. If you are planning to conduct the interview by video or phone, you can mention that information in place of the location.
As mentioned, the end of the message is pleasant and preceded by a clear call to action. Remember that your interviewee should want to work for you after reading this letter. Overall, keep your message straightforward, short, and positive.