Follow-up is everything; both in business as well as when it comes to getting that coveted job offer you had always wanted.
When done right, the follow-up has the power to build rapport, cement relationships and create better recall value when your name or a skill set you are well-versed in comes up for any reason. Once you are done with an interview with the hiring manager and you are pretty certain you did make a good impression, don’t wait to be called for the next round. Take the initiative to follow up because that’s exactly what most recruiters are hoping that you would do.
When you follow up, recruiters notice that you are interested in the role and quite enthusiastic to roll up your sleeves and start working. As long as you don’t sound whiny and too desperate, a good follow-up can work wonders for your career. Let’s take a look at how effectively you can follow up so that you land the job you wanted.
Understand the Interviewer
Employers receive innumerable applications from job seekers like yourself. Considering the hassles involved in the hiring process, interview evaluations can seem endlessly long.
Though a handful of recruiters will give you an indication about when they expect to notify you of their decision, most of them might forget that you even exist. Keep this in mind when you decide to follow up and ask for an update either by calling them or sending them an email. Here is an example of how you can string the email together:
"It was great meeting you at the interview. I wish to thank you for taking the time to review my application for the role of [POSITION].
You stated that you wanted to inform me by [DATE]. I was curious if you had made a decision. I look forward to hearing back from you."
If the recruiter responds that they have not made a final determination, you can reply by offering to provide more information. The idea is to keep the communication channel open between you and the recruiter. Here’s what you can pen:
"Thanks for sharing the situation with me. I appreciate that you take the time to make the right decision and look forward to speaking with you when you're ready.
I thought it might be useful to provide additional information beyond what we were able to discuss during the interview. After much thought, I wanted to share my knowledge about the job and any experience I might have that would be useful.”
In case the recruiter gives you the cold shoulder, mumbling that you didn’t make it through, without losing heart send in another follow-up mail with a positive tone. Here’s how to go about it:
"Thanks for letting me know your decision. The job presented great career opportunities so I am disappointed that I was not selected.
I hope I can contact your company later for any future openings and I sure hope I will be considered for the job.”
This shows you are interested in the company and also gives you an advantage if you're being considered for a different position.
Example of a Follow-up Email
Here is an example of a follow-up mail you can use as a rough guide. Make sure to send it within 24 hours of the interview. Show your enthusiasm for the opportunity and emphasize that you believe you are the right person for the job.
This follow-up mail could be an opportunity to highlight any details you missed during the interview. Highlight your strengths and how they relate to the job duties. You can refer to the notes you took during the interview as well as the job description to find words that will make an impact on the employer.
Please mention the job title in the first paragraph and thank the interviewer. Note the company name, a conversation point, or a goal in the second paragraph. Connect it to your own experiences. In the last paragraph, ask them additional questions. Then close by saying that you look forward to hearing from them.
Ms. Smith,
Thank you for speaking with me about the opening for [Position] at your company. It was great to meet you and learn more about the job.
I'm excited to have the opportunity to work for [Name of Company] and I am especially interested in the chance of starting to work on [Conversation Point/Goal Mentioned during the Interview]. I am excited to share my knowledge and help the company achieve or exceed its goals.
After speaking with you, I am confident that my skills, knowledge, and background will enable me to meet the job requirements and help your company achieve its goals.
If you need any further information or a sample of my work, please feel free to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you again.
My best wishes,
Johnny Depp
555-555-5555
Not getting enough interviews despite being qualified for the role?
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