You did it! After sending in your resume and receiving that welcome call from human resources, you went through your job interview with flying colors! But what do you do while you wait to hear back? Should you call or email to follow up?
It is often a good idea to follow up after an interview, to show your potential employer that you are interested in the job, and that you are a go-getter. But you don’t want to come off as desperate or bothersome. What are the do’s and don’ts of proper follow-up after a job interview? Read on and find out:
Should you follow up after a job interview?
The answer is always yes! Many job openings are inundated with hundreds of applications or more, and they may have to interview dozens of people, which makes it hard to keep track. When you get the chance to follow up, it would be wise to do so–it will help you stand out from other candidates and also shows your interest in the position.
What rules should you follow when following up?
Rules for follow up can vary, depending on what type of job you are applying for and who you are in contact with. Following up by email is generally acceptable, and widely used. One of the most powerful follow up methods is to send a handwritten thank you note to the person who interviewed you. Demonstrating your sincere appreciation for their time and perhaps mentioning a few key details that you discussed during the interview could show hiring managers that you are a conscientious, thoughtful candidate.
If, however, you know that the company plans to make a hiring decision quickly, it might not be enough time to write and mail a handwritten letter. In such cases, sending an email in the evening after your interview is recommended.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to proofread your message so that it is respectful and free of error.
In the end, though, the only hard-and-fast rules when it comes to following up after an interview is to remain positive and friendly – you never know what kind of influence the person you are talking to has on your application status. The best rule of thumb is to always strive to make a good impression.
What should you include in your follow up after your interview?
When following up after an interview you want to make sure your message is clear and thoughtful. Here are a few tips on what to include:
- Make sure your messages are clear, and error-free. Proofread so you don’t let ugly and distracting typos slip through.
- Address the person by name. It can help to include in the letter or email the specific position you applied for, the date of the interview and highlights of how your background aligns with the role they are trying to fill.
- Keep the message brief and to-the-point. Hiring managers are busy people!
- Don’t follow up too frequently or too often.
If you are interviewing for other jobs or have a job offer on hand, you can let your potential employer know, and encourage them to act quickly. It is respectful to let them know where you stand, and can work out for you, too!
How long should you wait before following up after a job interview?
It is a good idea to follow up with a thank you note as quickly as possible either the same business day or within 24 hours. That will show your interest in the job and remind hiring managers to get back to you if they have gotten distracted by other duties and interviews.
Finding a job is an important job in itself, and one of the most important components after your resume and interview is your follow up. If you follow up gracefully, you will not only help hiring managers remember you, but be even more favorably disposed toward you as a job candidate. Remember to be polite, brief, genuine, and positive, and you will increase your chances of landing your dream job!
Are you currently looking for a new position? Atlantic Group can help!