Have you ever wondered what to do after you've been interviewed for a job? Having been in your shoes, we know what it's like. Awaiting a response after an interview isn't fun, but it's a part of almost every job application process.
Every company and employer is different. The recruiter might be in touch with you throughout the interview process, or maybe you're talking to the hiring manager directly. No matter what, it's quite important to identify who you wish to follow up with directly and ideally, get the contact information of whoever interviewed you.
Following up after a job interview is first and foremost about expressing gratitude. In order to cement a good impression, you should consider checking this box shortly after your initial interview, as most interviewers expect a thank-you note from candidates.
Maintaining your name in the interviewer's mind by following up after an interview is also beneficial. This way, they are reminded of your strengths as a candidate and increases your chances of not being overlooked, especially if you were one of the first candidates to be interviewed. This is similar to when you’re selling a product - a gentle reminder of the strengths of the product can help the customer to remember it when they’re making their purchasing decision.
You should follow up after your interview the same or next day depending on the position and the industry. I mean, why wait? Let's compare this to dating. If you met someone for the first time, had a conversation with them, and got to know them (like you got to know your hiring manager), wouldn't it be rude to wait more than a few days to follow up with them? After an interview, you want to make sure that you leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager. Following up soon after the interview shows that you are interested and engaged in the process. Additionally, the quicker you follow up, the more likely it is that the hiring manager will remember you. Write a genuine note thanking each person for their time and expressing how much you appreciated the opportunity to interview and learn more about their company.
Here are some things worth mentioning:
Simply, say thank you
Although it may seem like the most basic thing you can do, thanking the interviewer for their time goes a long way. People often forget how much of their time is taken up by interviews, so acknowledging this and expressing your appreciation can make you stand out from other candidates. It also shows that you understand the amount of time and effort they put into the process. Don't forget to also mention the position you were applying for, for example, ''Thank you for taking the time interviewing me for the <job title> position <when the interview was>.
Get your candidacy out there
Reaffirm your interest in the position and the company in your follow-up note. This will help to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and show that you are still interested in the position after the initial interview. It will also help to keep your name at the top of the hiring manager's mind.
Did something slip your mind?
Discuss anything you would have liked to have said during the interview but did not have the chance to. It's your opportunity to bring up anything relevant you didn't get a chance to discuss during the meeting. Our minds can slip sometimes, and we can forget what we intended to say. Simply indicate that you wish you could have discussed whatever is on your mind and continue the conversation by e-mail.
Correct interview mistakes
It is a good idea to clarify what you meant in your thank-you note if you misspoke during your interview or answered a question poorly. This shows the interviewer that you are taking the initiative to ensure they have the most accurate information and that you are committed to being a great candidate. It can also demonstrate that you are willing to take responsibility for your mistakes, which is a valuable trait in an employee.