Following Up After Job Interviews: Best Practices

Why Following Up is Important

Following up after a job interview is an important part of the job search process. It demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role and gives you an opportunity to clarify any points that may have been unclear in the initial interview. It also shows that you are organized and on top of things, and that you really want the job. It's a great way to distinguish yourself from other applicants and ensure that you stand out in the recruitment process.

How to Follow Up After an Interview

It's important to give the company a few days to evaluate all the applicants before sending a follow-up. As soon as you have completed the interview, send a thank you note to the interviewer. Express your heartfelt appreciation for their time and attention, and be sure to make a personal connection to the interviewer, if possible. Include any information you may have omitted in the interview or that may be of value to the interviewer. Make sure to proofread your thank-you note, as typos or errors can reflect poorly on you.

When to Follow Up

The best time to follow up after an interview is within a few days of the interview. This shows that you are organized and dedicated to the job search process, and demonstrates that you are still interested in the position or company. Be sure to tailor your follow-up approach for the specific company and position. Avoid being too aggressive or pushy in your follow-up, as this can come off as desperate or lacking professionalism.

What to Include in a Follow-Up

Your follow-up should include an introduction of yourself and a reminder of the job you are applying for. It should also include a brief summary of why you believe you are the ideal candidate for the position. Don't forget to include a thank you or a polite request to follow-up with the interviewer if they haven't contacted you regarding the job. Lastly, reiterate your enthusiasm to work with the company and your commitment to pursue the role. Make sure to keep your follow-up short and concise, unless the interviewer requests more information.

Common Modes Of Follow-Up

The most common ways to follow up after an interview are via email, traditional mail, phone call, or a handwritten note. Though email is the most common choice for follow-up, it is a good idea to send a thank-you note or email the day after the interview. This is especially important if you chose to meet in person. In addition, a handwritten thank-you note sent via traditional mail can be a great way to show your appreciation and stand out from the competition.

Keep Your Options Open

Even if you are a great fit for the job and have followed up professionally, it’s possible you may still not receive any response from the company after the interview. In such a case, it’s important to not dwell on it and keep your options open. Reach out to other companies and job openings that you may be suitable for and try to get feedback on how you can improve your job search process in the future.

Conclusion

Following up after a job interview shows your enthusiasm, organization, attention to detail, and commitment to the role. Ensure that you properly time your follow-up, use the right mode of communication, and express yourself concisely. Don’t forget to thank the interviewer and reinforce your interest in the role. Try to keep your options open and never give up on yourself.