How to Follow Up After a Job Interview

Following up after a job interview is crucial.  For starters you need to send a strong well-written email within 12-24 hours of your interview. Writing a thank you note just doesn't showcase  your manners, but  can also make or break your chance of landing your next position.  This is not a step you want to overlook in your job hunt.  Read on for more details on how to be outstanding in your job search.

1. Start the actual follow up process during the interview.  Make sure to collect business cards from everyone that interviews you.  This will make your work so much easier. You will have the correct spelling of their name, accurate email address, position, etc.  Yes, you guessed it, everyone needs a follow up note. Toward the end of the interview, express your interest, tell them again why you are the perfect candidate for the job, and ask them when they plan on making their final decision.  Ask if you may follow up with them in a week.  Do they prefer a phone call or email?
2. When crafting your email, make sure your subject line is descriptive.  For example, " Thank You for the Interview/HR Talent Acquisition Position."  This helps your email to stand out from all the others that say "thank you" or "job interview".
3. Your email needs to mirror a business memo.
4. Thank the person for their time and the opportunity to interview.  Tailor it to the company and person who interviewed you.  Don't send a generic email.  Mention your discussion, and focus on what the hiring manager is looking for to fill this position.  Tell them  you understand their needs and challenges.  Reiterate how your skills align with this particular job and how you can help.
5. Keep your correspondance short and consise.
6. Proofread your note.
7. If you have not heard back within in a week or ten days, you can send another.  Don't be a pest and start your email by saying, "I have not heard from you .....".  You can start by telling them you have done more research on something discussed during the interview or you can send a link to a related article or something that might be of interest to them.  You can then ask if they might be able to let you know their plans or next steps to fill the position. You may also leave a voice mail, but after three attempts, stop following up. This is not a good sign. I think employers should always let you know where you stand.  Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Always keep many irons in the fire and keep trying.  You will land. Persistence and practice will pay off.
8. Always be professional.  Always be courteous.

Thanks for reading.

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