How to Follow up After an Interview
Key Takeaways
Tip | Description |
---|---|
Prompt gratitude | Send a thank-you note within 24 hours |
Patience is key | Wait 10 days before following up if no timeline given |
Keep it concise | Keep messages brief and personal |
Provide value | Add value in your follow-ups |
Maintain professionalism | Stay patient and professional |
Following up after an interview
After a completing a job interview, it's important to follow up. This shows you're excited about the job and helps the company remember you. Let's take a look at how to do it right!
When to reach out
Timing matters when following up. Here's what you should know:
- Send a thank-you note within 24 hours
- If given a decision date, wait an extra week after before checking in
- If no date given, use the "10 Day Rule" - wait 10 days after your interview
It's better to be patient than to bother them too much. Companies often take longer than expected to make decisions. While waiting, you can focus on optimizing your LinkedIn profile to strengthen your online presence and improve your odds at landing future interviews.
Writing a good thank-you note
Your thank-you note should be short and sweet. Include these things:
- Something specific from your interview
- Why you're excited about the job
- A reminder of why you'd be great for the role
Here's a simple example:
Dear Mrs. Smith,
Thanks for talking with me yesterday about the web designer job. I loved hearing about your new app idea! My experience making websites would help me do a great job on this project.
I'm really excited about working at TechCo and helping you make awesome apps.
Let me know if you need anything else. I look forward to hearing from you!
Best wishes,
John Doe
This note is friendly, specific, and shows why John would be a good fit for the job.
Following up if you don't hear back
If it's been a while and you haven't heard anything, it's okay to check in. Here's how:
- Use a clear subject line like "Checking in about web designer job"
- Keep your message short - one paragraph is enough
- Say you're still interested in the job
- Ask if they need anything else from you
Remember to be polite and not pushy. They might just be busy!
Making your follow-up stand out
Want to really impress them? Try these ideas:
- Share an interesting article about something you talked about
- Tell them about a recent accomplishment that shows your skills
- Explain how you could help with a project they mentioned
This shows you're thoughtful and eager to contribute. It's also a great opportunity to demonstrate your soft skills alongside your technical skills, which are both crucial in the workplace.
Following up by phone
Sometimes it's okay to call instead of email. If you do:
- Say your name and the job you interviewed for
- Mention something you talked about to help them remember you
- Be ready to quickly explain why you're excited about the job
Keep the call short and friendly. If they seem busy, offer to call back later.
What not to do when following up
Avoid these mistakes when following up:
- Don't contact them every day
- Don't sound angry or impatient
- Don't ask about salary or benefits in your follow-up
- Don't contact them on social media unless they said it was okay
When to move on
If you don't hear back after 2-3 follow-ups, it might be time to focus on other opportunities. This doesn't mean you did anything wrong! Sometimes companies choose another candidate or decide not to fill the position. If you're struggling with rejection, remember there are Bible verses about strength in hard times that can provide comfort and encouragement.
Conclusion
Following up after an interview is a chance to show your best self. Be polite, patient, and professional. Use these tips to make a great impression and boost your chances of getting the job. Remember, the right opportunity will come along if you keep trying. Good luck with your job search, and don't forget to pray before your job interview for added peace and confidence!
Learn more about Christian jobs that intersect with technology at Christian Tech Jobs. Whether you're exploring careers in faith-based organizations, hiring Christian talent, or seeking to combine your tech skills with your spiritual values, find your path in a place where technology and faith meet.
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