How to Follow Up After Interviews

When meeting with potential employers in a job search, you might think your work is done once an interview is over. This may be partially true, but the interview process also includes one more important practice – that of following​ up.

A good follow-up can make the difference between a potential second​ interview (or even job offer) or possibly, no response​ from a company at all. The following are some of the best ideas on how to follow​ up after an interview.

Defining a Follow-Up

A follow-up is correspondence from an interviewee to an interviewer, hiring manager, or potential employer after an interview​ is conducted. It is a practice of professional courtesy that serves as a message of thanks and acknowledgement of the meeting​ between two (or more) people.

The follow-up usually consists of an emailed​ or handwritten​ message. Phone calls or texts are not usually encouraged, but this may depend on your correspondence with a company​ so far. As your interview winds down, ask for the best ways to stay in touch – and follow-up accordingly.

Follow-up Content

Your follow-up should be a one-time message​ that expresses thanks to your interviewer(s) or hiring manager. It should also acknowledge the content of your interview – so tailor your follow-up messages for each interview you have.

Your first paragraph should briskly, but professionally, express your gratitude​ to the hiring manager for the interview. Your next paragraph can elaborate on what was discussed during the interview, with a nod to your skills or experience​ as it pertains to the position.

For example, after initially expressing thanks, you might write, “I enjoyed learning more about this accounting position and the challenges your company faces in the next quarter. I am enthusiastic, however, about using my work experience to help further your company’s success.”

The last paragraph of your message​ should show your willingness to continue correspondence with the company. You can also include your contact information or link to previous work​ here. As you close the follow-up message, use a professional​ sign-off, such as “Sincerely”, “Thank you”, or “Best”.

Follow-up Best Practices

The best practice in sending a follow-up is to do so with within 24 hours​ of your interview. If you are writing an email, do not follow-up immediately – wait at least an hour or two. Conversely, if you send a hand-written message, write​ and mail it as soon as possible.

Write a single message to each person​ who interviewed you. This may include the hiring manager or head of your intended position’s department. Each message should be tailor-made: be enthusiastic, personable, and professional.

Do not write any more correspondences than necessary. You may or may not get a response​ but that is all part of the interviewing process. If you take initiative in delivering​ original and appropriate follow-up messages, you have done your part.

A good follow-up professionally acknowledges others and their time. The more you write follow-ups, the easier it becomes, and your chances for getting hired​ will certainly improve.

Share this article

Sound Ideas for Professional Networking

Building a professional network can help you improve your prospects for work-related educational, business, and career opportunities.

How to Include Work Experience in a Resume

According to a long-term study, the average American adult holds about 12.4 jobs over the course of their lifetime, from ages 18 to 54.

Tips on Creating Multiple Resumes

A long-term study​ of U.S. adults born between 1957 and 1964 revealed that between the ages of 18 and 54, those surveyed held an average of 12.4 jobs.

Connect with us