How to Follow Up After a Job Interview and Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired

Key Takeaway

• Well-timed and thoughtful follow-ups post-interview significantly increase the chances of getting hired by leaving a positive impression.
• Timing is crucial: Send the first follow-up expressing gratitude within 24-48 hours and subsequent ones at least a week apart if needed.
• The follow-up message should express appreciation, reiterate interest, highlight key interview points, and inquire about the next steps.
• Dos and Don’ts include being patient, persistent but not pushy, maintaining professionalism, expressing gratitude, and avoiding personal details.
• Additional strategies involve leveraging LinkedIn, joining professional groups, attending industry events, continuous learning, and engaging in peer discussions for increased job prospects.

1. Introduction

Following up after a job interview is a critical step often overlooked by many job seekers. 

A well-timed and thoughtfully crafted follow-up to a hiring manager significantly boosts your chances of getting hired by leaving a lasting positive impression. Hence, understanding the importance of and mastering the art of follow-up is crucial for job search success.

2. When to Send a Follow-Up: The Timing

When to send a follow-up after a job interview often puzzles job seekers. Here’s a general guideline to follow:

First Follow-Up: Send your first follow-up within 24-48 hours after the interview. This is typically a thank-you note expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to interview. Ideally, you should send an initial follow-up email within 24 hours of your interview.

This immediate response portrays you as proactive and genuinely interested in the role. Additionally, it keeps your name fresh in the minds of those involved in the hiring process.

Second Follow-Up: If you have yet to hear back within a week or the timeline given by the interviewer, it’s acceptable to send a second follow-up email or make a phone call. Remember, the key is to be persistent but not overly pushy.

Subsequent Follow-Ups: If there’s still no response, you can follow up again, but be sure to space each follow-up at least a week apart. After three follow-ups, if you have yet to receive a response, moving on and exploring other opportunities is generally recommended.

Remember, each organization has its unique recruitment process and timeline, so these are general guidelines and can vary based on individual circumstances.

3. What to Include in Your Follow-Up Message

Appreciation for the Opportunity: 

Begin your follow-up message by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to interview for the job role. This demonstrates your appreciation and respect for the interviewer’s time and effort. Maintain a professional and polite tone to make a positive impression.

For example, you might say, “I am writing to sincerely thank you for the opportunity to interview for the [Job Title] position. I enjoyed our engaging conversation and learning more about the inspiring work at [Company Name].” Remember, a little courtesy goes a long way.

Restating Your Interest:

 After expressing your appreciation, you must reiterate your interest in the position and the company. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and your fit for the organization.

You might say something like, “The more I learned about the [Job Title] role and your innovative approach to [the field/industry], the more excited I became about the possibility of joining your team. I am confident that my skills in [specific skill] and experience in [specific experience] make me a strong candidate for this position.”

Be genuine and specific about why you see yourself in this role and how you can contribute to the organization’s efforts.

Highlighting Key Points from the Interview: 

The next part of your follow-up should remind the interviewer of your key strengths and the relevant points that make you a strong candidate for the position. This is a chance to show that you were attentive and thoughtful about the discussion.

For example, “During our discussion about [specific topic], I was particularly excited by the prospect of being able to apply my [specific skills or experiences] to similar challenges at [Company Name]. I feel that my experience in [specific area] directly aligns with the objectives and needs you outlined for the [Job Title] role.“

This reinforces your suitability for the job and helps the interviewer remember your conversation.

Asking About Next Steps:

It’s crucial to conclude your message by inquiring about the subsequent stages in the hiring process. This shows your eagerness to move forward and gives you a clear timeline.

You can phrase it like, “I am looking forward to the possibility of contributing to [Company Name]. Could you kindly inform me about the next stage in the selection process? I am ready to provide any additional information you might need.“

This proactive approach can make a positive impression, reinforcing your interest in the role and the company.

4. Sending the Follow-Up

There are various methods to send a follow-up, but the most common ones are via email, phone call, or letter.

• Email: This is the most common method in the digital age. The subject line should be clear and concise, such as “Follow-up on [Job Title] Interview.” Start with a polite greeting, followed by your content, and then sign off professionally. Keep the email well-structured, concise, and free from grammatical errors or typos.
• Phone Call: If you follow up via phone, ensure you call appropriately during business hours. Prepare a brief script of your words, keeping it professional and respectful.
• Letter: Although this method is not commonly used in recent years, it can still be an effective way to demonstrate your interest in the job. If you opt for this, use professional stationery and make sure your handwriting is neat and legible. The content should be similar to the email follow-up, but remember to sign off and date the letter appropriately.
• LinkedIn: LinkedIn provides another avenue for following up on a job interview. This professional networking platform allows you to send a direct message to your interviewer or the company representative. You can start the conversation by thanking them for the opportunity, expressing your continued interest in the role, and inquiring about the next steps in the process. 

Remember, whatever method you choose, wait for an appropriate amount of time (usually one to two weeks) after the interview before sending your follow-up.

5. Dos and Don’ts of Post-Interview Follow-Ups

• Be patient: While following up after an interview is essential, take your time to do so. It’s advisable to wait at least a week before reaching out.
• Stay persistent: If you get a response, it’s okay to follow up again but avoid contacting the interviewer excessively as it may appear desperate or pushy.
• Keep it professional: Whether emailing, calling, or writing a letter, maintain a formal and polite tone throughout your follow-up. Avoid using slang or overly informal language.
• Don’t make demands: Remember, you’re not yet an employee and, therefore, do not have the right to demand information. Instead, politely request updates about the hiring process.
• Do express gratitude: Always thank the interviewer for their time and consideration, regardless of the interview’s outcome.
• Don’t get personal: Keep your follow-up focused on the job and the interview. Resist the temptation to share personal stories or unrelated details about your life.
• Remember, a follow-up aims to demonstrate your keen interest in the role and to keep yourself at the forefront of the interviewer’s mind. Adhering to these dos and don’ts ensures that your follow-up is professional and effective.

6. Additional Strategies: Networking and Staying Relevant

• Leverage LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a professional networking platform that can help you stay connected with the interviewer and the organization. Follow the company page, engage with their posts, and share relevant industry content.
• Join professional groups: Become a member of industry-specific groups on social networks. They are a great platform to stay updated about industry trends and join discussions that can enhance your knowledge and visibility.
• Attend industry events: Physical or virtual industry events, like seminars, webinars, or conferences, provide excellent opportunities for networking and learning about current trends in your field.
• Continuous learning: Keep updated with the latest skills and tools relevant to your job. This adds value to your resume and shows your dedication to staying relevant in your field.
• Engage in peer discussions: Actively participate in forums and discussion threads related to your industry. This helps in learning from others’ experiences and showcases your field expertise.

By adopting these strategies, you can effectively network and stay relevant in your industry, increasing your chances of securing the desired job role.

7. Conclusion

Remember, the job application process does not end when you walk out of the interview room – your follow-up can be the decisive factor in obtaining the job offer. To summarize;

• Following up post-interview showcases enthusiasm and commitment to the job search process.
• It provides a chance to express gratitude, clarify uncertainties, and reinforce suitability for the role.
• Integrating networking strategies enhances visibility and prospects.
• The follow-up is crucial for obtaining a job offer, making it essential to remain proactive and engaged.
• Continuous efforts to connect with potential employers beyond the interview room contribute to job application success.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I follow up more than once if I still need to get a response to my initial follow-up?

Yes, you can. If you are still waiting to receive a response within a week of your initial follow-up, it’s acceptable to reach out again. However, it’s usually best to move on after two follow-ups without a response.

Q: How can I network effectively at virtual industry events?

A: Virtual networking involves more than just attending an online event. You can maximize your networking opportunities by actively participating in discussions, asking questions during sessions, and connecting with other attendees before and after the event through the event’s networking platform or social media.

Q: What if I need more industry-related experience to contribute to peer discussions?

A: Even if you’re new to the industry, your unique perspective and questions can contribute to peer discussions. Being active, open to learning, and respectful can help you gain insights and build relationships.

Q: How can I maintain my relevance in the industry between jobs?

A: You can stay relevant by continuously learning, updating your skills, and participating in industry forums and events, as mentioned in the article. You can also engage in freelance projects or volunteer work related to your field to gain practical experience.

Q: What is the importance of following up after a job interview?

A: Following up after a job interview shows your continued interest in the position and allows you to reiterate your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.

Q: How soon should I follow up after a job interview?

A: It is generally recommended to send a follow-up email within 24-48 hours after the interview to express your gratitude and reiterate your interest in the position.

Q: What should I include in a follow-up email after a job interview?

A: In your follow-up email, express appreciation for the opportunity, reiterate your interest and qualifications, and inquire about the next steps in the hiring process.

Q: How can following up after a job interview increase my chances of getting hired?

A: Following up allows you to keep the conversation going, showcase your professionalism, and stay on top of mind with the interviewer, which can improve your chances of getting the job.

Q: What are some best practices for following up after a job interview?

A: Best practices include sending a personalized thank-you note, referencing specific discussion points from the interview, and being polite and professional in all communications.

Q: Should I follow up after every job interview?

A: Following up after every job interview is advisable as it demonstrates your proactive approach and can help you stand out among other candidates.

Q: What can I do during the waiting period after a job interview?

A: Use the waiting period to continue researching the company, preparing for a potential next interview, and refining your understanding of how your qualifications align with the role.

Q: How can I improve my chances of getting the job through follow-up?

A: Sending a follow-up email and expressing your continued interest and fit for the role can improve your chances of getting the job by making a lasting impression on the interviewer.

Q: What tips help me follow up after a job interview?

A: Tips include sending a well-crafted thank-you note, asking for feedback on your interview performance, and looking for opportunities to reinforce your qualifications for the position.

Q: What should I do if I haven’t heard back after following up on a job interview?

A: If you haven’t heard back, it’s appropriate to send a polite and professional follow-up email to inquire about the status of the hiring process and express your continued interest in the role.