After The Interview
You’ve nailed the interview like we set out to do, but you’re not done quite yet. The post-interview steps you take matter just as much as the ones that came before. In this lesson, I’ll show you how to remind your potential employer why you’re the right fit, show your enthusiasm, and keep your name at the top of their list.
Why following up matters
Sending a follow-up message isn’t just about being polite; it serves several purposes:
It signals interest
Employers want to hire someone who genuinely wants the job. A prompt and thoughtful follow-up shows you’re invested.
It shows gratitude
A simple thank-you note shows that you’re thoughtful and appreciate the interviewer’s time.
It keeps you top of mind
If you’re one of many candidates, following up helps keep your name fresh in their minds.
Insider Tip
One thing that often surprises candidates: failing to send a follow-up message can hurt your chances. Many employers expect it, so skipping this step can make it seem like you’re not that interested.
The right way to follow up after your interview
First, confirm details during the interview
Your follow-up strategy starts before the interview ends. Ask about the next steps before you leave. Here are a few good questions to ask:
“If I don’t hear back, what’s the best way to follow up?”
“When can I expect to hear back?”
“Will there be a second round of interviews?”
Also, make sure you have everyone’s contact information. If multiple people interviewed you, get their names and titles so you can send individual thank-you notes. If you don’t have their info, ask your recruiter or main point of contact afterward.
Insider Tip
Some recruiters might hesitate to give you a direct answer about the timeline. Don’t be afraid to ask for specifics, like “Can I expect to hear back by next Tuesday?” Getting a specific day will help you time your follow-up better.
Send a handwritten thank-you note
Handwritten notes might feel old school, but that’s exactly why they’re effective. Most people don’t send them, which can make you stand out.
Pick up some simple thank-you cards or stationery and keep the note short. Thank them for their time, mention something specific you discussed in the interview, and express your continued interest in the role. It’s the personal touch that counts here.
Send a timely follow-up email
The hiring process may seem like it drags on forever, but companies will fill certain positions very quickly. Your email follow-up should go out within 24 hours of the interview.
Send a genuine note to each person you spoke with, thanking them for their time and stating that you appreciated and enjoyed the chance to interview and learn more about their company. It doesn’t have to be lengthy. Two or three sentences are sufficient. Here’s a quick template you can use:
Don’t
Don’t send a handwritten note instead of an email. The thank you note should be in addition to the email, not a replacement.
Insider Tip
Reply to the last email you received from the recruiter or hiring manager. It keeps the conversation thread together and improves the chances that they’ll see your message.
Connect on LinkedIn
After you send your email, connect with your interviewer on LinkedIn. It’s a low-key way to show you’re proactive and interested in maintaining a professional relationship. When you send the connection request, include a quick message reminding them of your interview.
Insider Tip
If your interview touched on any mutual interests—like an industry trend or article—consider sending a follow-up LinkedIn message a few days later to continue the conversation. This adds a layer of connection beyond just the interview itself.
Notify your references
If the company plans to check your references, give your references a heads-up. Remember: always let them know a potential employer may be reaching out and briefly describe the role and company. Refer to the lesson on professional references for more details.
Don’t
Don’t wait until the last minute to check in with your references. You want them to feel prepared and not caught off guard when they get the call.
Stay patient, but keep moving
Once you’ve sent your follow-up, the ball is in their court. Waiting to hear back can feel like an eternity, but don’t let it slow you down. Keep applying to other jobs. Even if you feel like you nailed the interview, things can fall through for reasons outside your control.
Don’t
Don’t send follow-up after follow-up if you don’t hear back. One well-timed message is enough. If a week or more goes by with no response, you can send a polite follow-up, but after two follow-ups, it’s time to move on and focus on other opportunities.
How to handle an unclear response
Don’t be discouraged if you’ve sent a job interview status follow-up email and received the lackluster “I’ll get back to you when I know more” response. As much as you want a timely and concrete answer, be patient and respect the interview process that the company has in place. It’s typically your best bet to respond with an email along the lines of:
If you have received and taken another offer during this downtime, it’s best practice to contact the hiring manager and gracefully let them know you’re withdrawing from the interview process.
How to handle a lack of response
Sometimes, you send a follow-up and get no response. It’s frustrating, but it’s important to stay professional. Here’s a sample email you can use if you haven’t heard anything after a week:
After two follow-ups with no response, it’s best to move on to other opportunities. Don’t let it discourage you—job searching can be a numbers game, and you’ll find the right fit.
- Ask for next steps during the interview. Be specific, and don’t leave without understanding the timeline and expectations.
- Send both an email and a handwritten note. It shows thoughtfulness and keeps you top of mind.
- Be timely. Send your follow-up within 24 hours.
- Connect on LinkedIn. Building rapport online can open doors down the road.
- Stay patient, but keep applying. Until you have an offer in hand, continue your job search.