After completing a job interview, many candidates are left wondering what comes next.
Following up after an interview might feel tricky, but it’s an important step in the job search process.
It shows you’re really interested in the job, helps keep you fresh in the interviewer’s mind, and can even give you some useful feedback.
Let’s walk through how to follow up in a way that’s both effective and friendly.
Why To Follow Up?
Following up after an interview has a few key benefits:
- Shows You Care: It lets the interviewer know you’re serious about the job.
- Keeps You on Their Radar: A follow-up helps keep your name at the top of their mind.
- Clarifies Next Steps: You can confirm what the next steps are in the hiring process.
- Opportunity for Extra Info: You can provide any additional information or clear up anything you think might have been missed during the interview.
When To Follow Up?
Timing matters when it comes to following up.
Generally, it’s best to send a follow-up email within 24 hours of your interview.
This shows you’re keen and keeps you in the mind of the interviewer.
But, if the interviewer mentioned a specific timeline, be sure to respect that.
Writing The Follow-Up Email
A good follow-up email doesn’t have to be complicated.
Here’s a simple guide to help you write one:
Subject Line
Keep it straightforward.
Something like “Thank You for the Interview” or “Follow-Up on [Position Title] Interview” works well.
Greeting
Address the interviewer by their full name.
If you spoke with multiple people, send separate emails to each person and personalize them.
Opening
Start by thanking them for the opportunity to interview.
Mention the date of your interview and the position you discussed.
Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you so much for meeting with me yesterday to discuss the [Position Title] role at [Company Name].
Body
Express your enthusiasm for the job and mention something specific from the interview that you found exciting or interesting.
This shows you were paying attention and are genuinely interested.
I’m really excited about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and working on [specific project or aspect of the job]. Our conversation about [specific topic] made me even more enthusiastic about this role and how my background in [relevant experience] could be a great fit for your team.
Closing
Offer to provide any additional information and express your eagerness to hear about the next steps.
Please let me know if there’s any more information I can provide. I’m looking forward to hearing about the next steps. Thanks again for your time and consideration.
Best,
[Your Full Name]
[Your LinkedIn Profile]
[Your Phone Number]
Following Up After Multiple Interviews
If you’ve had multiple rounds of interviews, it’s important to follow up after each one.
Each follow-up should build on your ongoing interest in the role.
Here’s a template for a second or third interview follow-up:
Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
Thanks for the opportunity to discuss the [Position Title] role further on [date]. I enjoyed diving deeper into [specific topic] and learning more about [Company Name]’s goals for [project or department].
I’m still very excited about the potential to bring my [specific skills or experiences] to your team. Please let me know if there are any additional steps I should take or more information you need.
Best,
[Your Full Name]
Handling No Response
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might not get a response to your follow-up email.
Here’s how to handle this situation:
Be Patient
Give the employer at least a week to respond before sending a second follow-up.
Hiring processes can take time.
Second Follow-Up
If you haven’t heard back after a week, it’s okay to send a polite reminder.
Here’s a template:
Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
I hope you’re well. I’m just following up on my interview for the [Position Title] role on [date]. I’m very excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and wanted to check if there have been any updates regarding the next steps.
Thanks again for your time and consideration.
Best,
[Your Full Name]
Phone Call
If you still don’t get a response, a brief, professional phone call might be the next step.
Just ask if there are any updates and reiterate your interest in the role.
Using LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a great tool for following up and staying connected with your interviewers.
Here’s how to use it effectively:
Connect With Interviewers
Send a personalized connection request.
Mention your recent interview and thank them for the opportunity.
Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
I recently interviewed for the [Position Title] role at [Company Name] and wanted to connect here on LinkedIn. I enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic] and would love to stay in touch.
Best,
[Your Full Name]
Engage With Their Content
Like and comment on the company’s posts and your interviewers’ updates.
This keeps you visible and shows your ongoing interest.
Share Updates
If you achieve something noteworthy, share it on LinkedIn.
Tag the company or interviewers if appropriate.
This helps keep you on their radar.
Asking For Feedback
Whether you get the job or not, asking for feedback can be really helpful.
Here’s how to do it:
Timing
Wait until the hiring process is complete before asking for feedback.
Email Template
Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you once again for the opportunity to interview for the [Position Title] role. While I’m disappointed that I wasn’t selected, I’d love to get some feedback on my interview performance to help me improve.
Thanks for your time and insights.
Best,
[Your Full Name]
Wrapping Up
Following up after an interview is more than just a polite gesture—it’s a smart move that can help you stand out and get valuable feedback.
By sending thoughtful follow-up emails, staying engaged, and asking for feedback, you can improve your chances of landing the job and grow as a professional.
Remember, every interaction is an opportunity to show your enthusiasm and professionalism. Good luck!
