Wondering how to follow up after a job interview without being pushy? Learn the best practices to send a polite, professional follow-up email, reinforce your interest, and improve your chances of getting hired without overwhelming the hiring manager.
Introduction
Following up after a job interview is an essential step in the hiring process. However, many candidates struggle with finding the right balance between showing interest and appearing too aggressive. In this guide, we will cover the best ways to follow up after a job interview without being pushy.
Why Following Up is Important
A well-crafted follow-up message can:
- Reinforce your enthusiasm for the position.
- Keep you fresh in the hiring manager’s mind.
- Show professionalism and good communication skills.
- Clarify any unanswered questions from the interview.
- Help establish a positive relationship with potential employers.
- Set you apart from other candidates who may not follow up.
The Best Ways to Follow Up After a Job Interview
1. Send a Thank-You Email Within 24 Hours
A thank-you email is a polite way to express appreciation and reaffirm your interest in the role. A well-written thank-you email can also demonstrate your attention to detail and professionalism. Keep it short and professional. Example:
Subject: Thank You for the Opportunity
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I appreciate the opportunity to interview for [Job Title] at [Company Name] on [Date]. It was great learning more about the team and how I can contribute. I look forward to the next steps. Please let me know if you need any further information.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Make sure to personalize this email based on your conversation during the interview. Mentioning specific details from the discussion can make your email more impactful.
2. Respect the Timeline Given
If the interviewer mentioned a specific timeline for their decision, wait until that time has passed before following up. Being patient shows professionalism and respect for the employer’s process.
3. Send a Polite Follow-Up Email
If you haven’t heard back within the expected timeframe, send a follow-up email. A follow-up email should be concise and to the point, reiterating your interest in the role without seeming too eager or impatient. Example:
Subject: Following Up on [Job Title] Interview
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to check in on the status of my application for [Job Title]. I remain very interested in the role and look forward to any updates. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can provide.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
It’s essential to maintain a positive and professional tone in this email. Avoid sounding frustrated or desperate, as it can negatively impact your chances.
4. Connect on LinkedIn (Optional)
If you had a good rapport with the interviewer, you can send a LinkedIn connection request with a short note thanking them for their time. This not only helps you stay connected but also increases your visibility within the company.
5. Avoid Excessive Follow-Ups
Following up too often can make you seem impatient. If you haven’t received a response after two follow-ups, it’s best to move on and focus on other opportunities. A hiring process can take time, and excessive follow-ups may harm your chances rather than help.
6. Stay Professional and Positive
Whether you receive a response or not, always remain professional. If you get rejected, respond politely and express gratitude for the opportunity. A positive response to rejection can leave a lasting impression and keep the door open for future opportunities.
7. Follow Up Through Different Channels
If you’ve sent an email and haven’t received a response, you can consider following up through other channels, such as:
- A direct message on LinkedIn
- A phone call (if appropriate and previously discussed)
- A handwritten note (for high-level executive positions)
However, always respect the hiring manager’s preferred method of communication.
8. Keep Yourself Updated About the Company
While waiting for a response, continue researching the company. Stay updated on their latest news, product launches, or industry changes. This knowledge can help you in future interactions with the company.
9. Be Ready for Additional Interviews
Sometimes, a follow-up email can lead to another round of interviews or assessments. Ensure you are prepared by reviewing your previous interview performance and practicing common follow-up interview questions.
10. Have a Backup Plan
While following up is essential, you should also continue applying for other jobs. Having multiple opportunities in the pipeline can reduce stress and increase your chances of landing the right role.
Conclusion
Knowing how to follow up after a job interview without being pushy can set you apart as a professional and respectful candidate. A well-timed, polite email can keep you in consideration while ensuring you don’t overwhelm the hiring manager. Follow these steps, and you’ll increase your chances of landing the job. Stay confident, professional, and patient, and keep moving forward in your job search.
FAQs
1. How soon should I follow up after an interview?
Send a thank-you email within 24 hours and a follow-up email if you don’t hear back within the given timeline.
2. What if the company doesn’t respond to my follow-up email?
If you don’t receive a response after two follow-ups, it’s best to move on and continue your job search.
3. Can I follow up by phone instead of email?
Unless the employer specifically invites phone inquiries, email is the preferred method as it is less intrusive.
4. How do I follow up if I interviewed with multiple people?
Address your follow-up email to the main interviewer or recruiter and express appreciation for the whole team.
5. Should I follow up if I get rejected?
Yes, sending a polite response thanking them for the opportunity can leave a positive impression for future openings.
6. What should I do if the interviewer said they would contact me but didn’t?
If the given timeline has passed, send a polite follow-up email to check in on the status.
7. How do I keep my follow-up email professional?
Keep it concise, express appreciation, reiterate interest, and avoid sounding impatient or demanding.
8. What if I receive a job offer from another company while waiting for a response?
If you have a pending offer, you can inform the other company and politely ask if they have an update on your application status.
9. Is it appropriate to ask for feedback in a follow-up email?
If you are rejected, you can politely ask for feedback. Example: “I would appreciate any feedback that could help me improve for future opportunities.”
10. Can a follow-up email increase my chances of getting hired?
Yes, a well-crafted follow-up email demonstrates professionalism, enthusiasm, and good communication skills, which can positively influence the hiring decision.
