How to follow up a job interview
In this lesson we explore the reasons why you should follow up your job interview, how and when you should follow up a job interview and what to say when following up a job interview.
1. Should follow up a job interview?
There are several valid reasons why you should follow up job interview. The main reason is that it gives you the opportunity to check that your candidacy is still being considered. It also gives you the opportunity to receive feedback on your interview, which could help you when applying for jobs in the future. Be careful though as you should not follow up every interview. Some job adverts specify that ANY form of contact outside of submitting your application could result in your job application being instantly rejected. It therefore vital that you double check the job advert before requesting feedback.
2. How long to wait to follow up a job interview
Having made the decision to follow up on a job interview how long should you wait to contact the employer? Some people recommend contacting the employer before or immediately after your interview. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and allows you to confirm that your candidacy is still being considered. However, some people think that this could come across as too pushy and reduce your chances of success. We would recommend deciding based on the information contained in each job advertisement.
3. Who to contact when following up a job interview
There are several people who it may be worth contacting when following up a job interview. The Human Resources department is often the most appropriate point of contact as it is this department that often manages the recruitment process. You may also want to consider contacting the person to whom the role reports as they may also be involved in the recruitment process.
4. How to make contact when following up a job interview
There are several ways that you can make contact to follow up a job interview. These include:
a) Email
If you have an email address, then you might send an email message showing your enthusiasm for the role and requesting feedback on your application.
b) Telephone
If you have a phone number, then you could consider calling the organisation. Before you do make sure that you have prepared what you want to say and remain professional and open to the possibility of rejection. Do not be surprised if the employer refuses to or is unable to provide feedback on interviews. Stay polite and professional and thank them for their time. Remember that the jobs market can be extremely competitive with lots of people applying for jobs. It can therefore be difficult for employers to find the time and resources to provide feedback to every applicant.
c) In-Person
In some circumstances it is also acceptable to visit an organisation in person to gain feedback on your interview. This is especially suitable if the organisation invited hand-delivered applications as part of the job advertisement. Again, make sure that you have prepared what you want to say and remain professional and open to the possibility of rejection. Make sure that you demonstrate your enthusiasm and knowledge, are dressed appropriately and engage with the organisation in a warm and professional manner.
5. What to say when following up your job application
It is important to ensure that you follow up on a job interview in a positive way that will improve rather than reduce your chances of interview success. In no circumstances should you harass or insult anyone during this process. If you are following up your job interview in writing ensure that your message is concise, error-free, professional and friendly. For example:
Dear {Insert Title},
On x x 201x, I attended for an interview with your organisation for the role of {Insert Job Title} as advertised on {Insert Source}.
As yet, I have not heard back from your organisation and would be obliged if confirm that my candidacy is still being considered for this role?
I believe that as an experienced {Insert Profession} with qualifications in {Insert Qualifications} I would be able to contribute to the success of your organisation. If you would like me to reattend or require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
I look forward to your response.
Kind regards,
{Insert Your Name}
{Insert Contact Details}
6. When to stop following up a job interview
Eventually you will have to stop following up a job interview but when should you stop?
We would suggest that:
a) if you have not heard back from an employer within 6 weeks of the interview date, and/or
b) have not been able to contact them for further information after 3 attempts then it is time to stop following up on this job interview and to focus your energies elsewhere.
Your task
Consider how you follow up after your attendance at job interviews to ensure that you are doing everything possible to improve your prospects of success.