How To Follow Up After an Interview
After a job interview, your next steps can significantly impact your chances of securing the position. Following up properly demonstrates your interest in the role and keeps you on the interviewer's mind. Whether it's through an email, a phone call, or a handwritten note, knowing how to follow up effectively is crucial. This article provides clear, actionable strategies to help you navigate this process.
Timing Your Follow-Up
The timing of your follow-up can influence how it is received. Sending a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview is generally considered best practice. This prompt response shows enthusiasm and respect for the interviewer's time. If you were given a specific timeline for hearing back, make sure to respect it before sending any additional follow-up communications.
In cases where no timeline was provided, waiting about one week before following up again is advisable. This allows enough time for the hiring process to progress without appearing too eager or impatient.
If the interviewer mentioned a decision date that has passed without any communication, a polite inquiry can serve as a gentle reminder of your interest. The key is to strike a balance between showing interest and respecting the employer’s process.
Crafting the Perfect Thank-You Email
A well-crafted thank-you email can reinforce your positive impression and reiterate your interest in the position. Here are some essential elements to include:
- Subject Line: Keep it simple and clear, such as "Thank You - [Your Name]"
- Greeting: Address the interviewer by their title and last name unless instructed otherwise.
- Express Gratitude: Thank them for the opportunity to interview and their time.
- Reiterate Interest: Briefly mention why you are excited about the role and how it aligns with your skills and experiences.
- Mention Key Points: Reference specific points from the interview that highlight your qualifications.
- Close Professionally: Sign off with a professional closing such as "Best regards" or "Sincerely."
An example thank-you email might look like this:
Dear [Interviewer’s Name], Thank you for taking the time to meet with me yesterday. I appreciated learning more about the [Job Title] role and your team at [Company Name]. Our discussion about [specific topic discussed] reinforced my enthusiasm for this position. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills in [specific skill] to [Company Name], and I am confident that my background in [relevant experience] would be an asset to your team. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best regards, [Your Name]
Follow-Up Call Etiquette
If you're more comfortable with phone calls or feel that a call would be more effective, it’s important to approach this method with care. Start by preparing what you want to say ahead of time, ensuring you cover key points without sounding rehearsed. Here are some guidelines:
- Choose an appropriate time: Mid-morning or early afternoon is often best.
- Be polite and concise: Introduce yourself and remind them of your interview date.
- Express gratitude: Thank them again for the opportunity and express continued interest in the role.
- Ask for updates: Inquire politely if there have been any developments regarding the position.
An example script might be:
Hello [Interviewer’s Name], This is [Your Name]. I interviewed for the [Job Title] position last week, and I wanted to thank you again for the opportunity. I am very interested in joining [Company Name] and wanted to follow up on the status of my application. Is there any further information you need from me at this stage?
The Role of Handwritten Notes
A handwritten thank-you note can add a personal touch that sets you apart from other candidates. While less common in today’s digital age, a well-timed note can leave a lasting impression.
If you choose this method, ensure that your handwriting is legible, and keep the message concise. Mail it promptly so it arrives within a few days of your interview. Combine this with an initial email follow-up for a balanced approach.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls in your follow-up communications can enhance their effectiveness. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:
- Being Overly Persistent: Multiple follow-ups within short periods can come across as desperate or pushy.
- Lack of Personalization: Sending generic messages can seem insincere. Tailor each communication to reflect specific details from your interview.
- Ignoring Instructions: If an interviewer provides specific guidelines on how or when to follow up, adhere strictly to those instructions.
Table: Follow-Up Methods Comparison
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Quick, easy to personalize, immediate delivery | Might get lost in inbox clutter | |
| Phone Call | Direct interaction, immediate feedback potential | Poor timing may interrupt; requires preparation |
A balanced approach often works best, combining different methods while respecting professional boundaries.
A proper follow-up after an interview can significantly impact your job search success. Timely thank-you emails, thoughtful phone calls, and even handwritten notes can demonstrate your genuine interest in the position while keeping you top-of-mind with hiring managers. Avoid common mistakes such as being overly persistent or sending generic messages.