How to write a follow-up email after job interview

Follow-up email just after the interview

Firstly, it's a question of proper etiquette. 

Moreover, perhaps, recruiters get what they want. 

Therefore, sending a thank-you note after your interview sets you apart from the rest of the candidates.

So, when to send the follow-up email? The faster, the better, either on the precise day of the interview or the next day. And do not delay it for more than 24 hours after the initial interview. In the follow-up email outline, the reasons your capabilities fit with the position. Relate to your details from the interview and the job requirements to use terms that would align with the prospective employer. If there's something regarding the interview that you forgot to say or want to expand on, this email is a perfect spot to discuss it. Display your enthusiasm for the role by restating your focus on the job. And your belief that you are a successful choice for this role. 

Begin with the name of the individual who was interviewing you. If you are on a first-name arrangement, then include their first name. If not, add Mr or Ms and the last name thereof. Pick a suitable length. You will also see a brief edition and a lengthy version in the illustrations below. In most situations, the concise version would be preferable. Close the document with your name, contact number, and email. Take the time to read before you press submit. 

A follow-up email: shorter-version example

Things to consider when drafting your shorter-version follow-up email;

• Consider the relevant work description in the first paragraph and acknowledge your interviewer.
• Specify the name of the organization in the second paragraph, as well as a point of emphasis and intent, and the individual you spoke to appears to be highly beneficial. Link your background and aspirations with that point.
•  In the last paragraph, inspire them to approach you with any additional questions and end by indicating that you are waiting to hear back.

A follow-up email: longer-version 

In the extensive- edition, you will have the chance to explain your skills in detail. Though, you will see that it is still not that long edition. Things to include in the longer-version follow-up email :

• In the initial paragraph, express gratitude to your interviewer for their time and show your continuing involvement in the job and business.
• Be as descriptive as possible in the second paragraph, address and build on something from the interaction. While keeping it brief and to-the-point, get as descriptive as possible. 
• Close with a short comment in the third and last paragraph about what places you aside as a unique candidate and what you will contribute to this fantastic venture.

Remember that you will have to invest time adapting the components to your personal experience and the interview interactions, primarily for the lengthy cover letter. The further these basic examples are tweaked, the better you will strike out as a candidate. 

No response follow-up email

A follow-up email after an interview since there has been no correspondence will seem daunting to compose. Also though you have not got a response from a prospective employer, however after your thank you email, you should send an email to verify, preferably to the hiring manager. You might submit this message if you do not receive any confirmation in the next two weeks after your interview.

You don't have to think about the fact that tracking in makes you appear irritating or needy. The reality is that at every organization, such decisions require a substantial amount of time. And you only give them a soft push for a prompt. And if you still prefer the position, it doesn't hurt to reinforce it.

Checking email follow-up example

You have to stick to the basics and make it concise. Confirm that you are hoping for more data by not being overenthusiastic:

• Have the job title that you have interviewed for in the subject field.
• Submit this letter to the hiring manager. They are quite often to be up-to-date as to what is happening in the recruiting process.  
• Maintain it to a single paragraph showing that are you are still passionate about the position and waiting for an update. Propose to include extra details if they request it. Sign off with your thanks.

Keeping in touch with emails

If you've not received feedback after checking in or that you realize you did not get the position, you should also continue to remain in contact with the prospective employer. The reason for this email is to develop a professional arrangement with an individual who can help you achieve your goals in your career. Be sure that it is extremely doubtful that this email will alter that if you got a definite no on this role. 

Keeping in touch email follow-up example

Here is a list of things to note in this type of email follow-up;

• Submit the letter to the recruiter. The employer is likely in a management position and, if you are going to establish in this area, maybe he can be your possible advisor. In your initial paragraph, so, indicate what you find fascinating or inspiring about them.
• Allow two paragraphs and provide a suggested timetable for a coffee or telephone call meeting.

If you don't receive a response to this letter, reply to them once more. The majority of people don't neglect you on intent. They're very busy, and your message probably slipped their mind. Such follow-up correspondences are clear signs of your involvement and appreciation, as long as you are respectful and considerate rather than clingy.

Phone-interview follow-up email

A formal phone interview after sending a request? The guidelines for regular follow-up correspondence for an interview comply.

But- What if, during the selection stage, there was an evaluation done on you? 

That is when the employer notices you, but not the other way around. If you're serious, then clarify that explicitly. On the same day, recruiters sometimes question several individuals. Their task is to get applicants involved and filter out those who are not willing on the deal. Display your commitment to them.

Phone-interview follow-up email example

Before composing your letter, follow these tips;

• For the interviewer's consideration and involvement, thank them.
• Demonstrate the passion you have. Be as particular as necessary: notify what aspects of the work inspire you and why.
• To describe your inspiration and summarize your primary selling features, attach your resume and a cover letter.
• Make it brief and concise.

Second-interview follow-up email

Your phone is ringing again, following your initial conversation.

We are pleased to tell you that for a second appointment you have been picked.

Kudos. And know what, but again? You have to submit a new follow-up letter after the second interview.

The main distinction between the follow-up emails for the first and next interview is that the more you are part of the hiring process, the more thorough you must be in the correspondence.

You have already addressed the unique strategies and complexities of the job role. In your follow-up document, after a second interview, give information about how you will manage them.

Follow-up email better option - email or call

The research has indicated that 46% of hiring managers tend to prefer email. There were almost two out of five employers who were available for telephone conversations. Stick with a sure shot follow-up email if you are not sure that the prospective employer would be comfortable with your contacting them.

And, whichever point you are in your job quest, ensure you understand how to employ one of the most versatile resources available to you: LinkedIn.

What should I say in a follow-up email after an interview

In a follow-up email after an interview, you aim to thank the interviewer, show you’re still interested in the job, briefly remind them of your key skills, and ask about the next steps in the process. Here’s a simple outline;

1. Subject Line: Make it clear and professional, mentioning it’s a follow-up after the interview.
2. Greeting: Use the interviewer’s name and make sure it’s spelled right.
3. Thank You: Start by thanking them for their time and the chance to interview.
4. Reiterate Interest: Mention that you're still excited about the job and the company.
5. Highlight Key Points: Bring up a key skill or topic you discussed in the interview that fits the role.
6. Ask About Next Steps: Politely ask what’s next in the hiring process or if they need more information.
7. Closing: End on a positive note, thanking them again for their time.
8. Sign-Off: Use a polite closing and include your full name.

Example Follow-Up Email

Subject: Thank You – Jane Doe – Marketing Manager Interview

Dear Mr. Smith,

Thank you for taking the time to meet with me on Tuesday to discuss the Marketing Manager position at ABC Corp. I enjoyed learning more about your team’s vision for the future and how this role would contribute to those efforts.

I’m excited about the opportunity to bring my experience in digital marketing and project management to ABC Corp. Our discussion about your upcoming product launch reaffirmed my interest in joining your team and helping to execute successful marketing strategies.

Kindly notify me if you require any additional assistance from me. I'm interested in learning about the next stages that the hiring process will take.  

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

Jane Doe

When is the best time to send a follow-up email after an interview

Within 24 to 48 hours following the interview is the ideal time to send a follow-up email. This timing is ideal because it allows you to show appreciation while the interview is fresh in the interviewer's mind, without seeming too eager or impatient. If the interviewer mentioned a specific timeline for a decision or the next steps, you should also consider that before sending additional follow-ups.

How long should I wait to send a follow-up email after a job interview

It's advisable to send a follow-up email within 24-48 hours after your job interview.

Timing of Follow-Up Emails

Initial Thank-You Email (24-48 hours after the interview)

1. Send this email promptly to show your enthusiasm and professionalism.
2. It keeps you fresh in the interviewer's mind.

Status Inquiry Email (1-2 weeks after the interview)

1. If you haven't heard back within the timeframe they provided, or after about a week if no timeframe was given.
2. This gentle reminder shows your continued interest without being pushy.

Final Follow-Up (2-3 weeks after the interview)

1. If you still haven't heard anything, this is your last check-in before moving on.

Content of Follow-Up Emails

Initial Thank-You Email

1. Express gratitude for the interviewer's time.
2. Reiterate your interest in the position and company.
3. Briefly remind them of your key qualifications.
4. Reference specific points from the interview to personalize the message.

Status Inquiry Email

1. Politely inquire about the status of your application.
2. Reaffirm your interest in the position.
3. Mention how your skills align with the role.

Final Follow-Up

1. Express your continued interest in the position.
2. Ask if there's any update on the hiring decision.
3. Politely request an estimated timeframe for the decision, if possible.

Best Practices

1. Keep emails concise and professional.
2. Proofread carefully to avoid errors.
3. Use a clear, specific subject line (e.g., "Thank You - Marketing Manager Interview").
4. Address the interviewer by name and title.
5. End with a professional closing (e.g., "Best regards," "Sincerely,").
6. Include your full name and contact information in the signature.

Additional Considerations

1. Multiple Interviewers: If you met with multiple people, send individual, personalized emails to each.
2. Panel Interviews: Send a group email, but personalize it with specific references to each interviewer's questions or comments.
3. Networking: If you connected well with the interviewer, consider adding them on LinkedIn with a personalized invitation.
4. Timing Sensitivity: Be mindful of sending emails during business hours and days.
5. Company Culture: Adjust your tone to match the company's culture (more formal for traditional industries, slightly less formal for startups).

What Not to Do

1. Don't follow up too frequently - it can appear desperate or annoying.
2. Avoid mentioning salary or benefits unless the interviewer brought it up first.
3. Don't sound presumptuous about getting the job.
4. Don't use overly casual language or emoticons, even if the interview was informal.

What subject line should I use for a follow-up email after an interview

Here are a few good subject lines you can use for a follow-up email after an interview:

1. Thank You – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Interview
2. Follow-Up on [Job Title] Interview
3. Appreciation for the Interview – [Your Name]
4. Grateful for the Opportunity – [Job Title] Interview
5. Thank You for Your Time – [Your Name]

Should I follow up if I haven’t heard back after a job interview

Yes, follow up if you haven't heard back after a job interview, especially if the expected response time has passed. A polite follow-up shows your continued interest in the position and helps you stay on the interviewer's radar.

Here’s when and how to follow up;

1. Wait a reasonable amount of time: If the interviewer provided a timeline, wait until that period has passed. If they didn’t, it’s generally a good idea to follow up about one week after the interview.
2. Send a professional email: Keep your message brief and polite. Express your continued interest in the role, inquire about the status of the hiring process, and offer to provide any additional information they may need.

Following up demonstrates professionalism, but be sure not to overdo it. One follow-up email is enough unless they provide a timeline for further contact.

Is it okay to send multiple follow-up emails after a job interview

Yes, it's okay to send multiple follow-up emails after a job interview, but you should do so thoughtfully and with restraint. Here’s a general guideline;

1. Initial Follow-Up: Send your first follow-up email 24 to 48 hours after the interview to thank the interviewer and express continued interest.
2. Second Follow-Up: If you haven't heard back after the timeline given by the interviewer (or after about one week), you can send a second follow-up politely asking for an update on the hiring process.
3. Final Follow-Up: If there's still no response after your second follow-up and a significant amount of time has passed (e.g., one to two weeks), you can send a final follow-up expressing your continued interest, but at this point, it’s best to move on if no reply is received.

Make sure each follow-up is polite, professional, and spaced out appropriately so you don’t come across as overly persistent or impatient.

How do I write a thank-you email after a job interview

To write a thank-you email after a job interview, do the following;

1. Subject Line: Keep it simple and professional, like "Thank You – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Interview."
2. Greeting: Address the interviewer by their name, making sure it's spelled correctly.
3. Express Gratitude: Begin by thanking them for their time and the chance to interview.
4. Reiterate Interest: Mention that you’re still interested in the job and the company.
5. Highlight Key Points: Briefly mention something specific from the interview that shows why you’re a good fit.
6. Offer Additional Information: Let them know you’re happy to provide more information or answer any more questions.
7. Close Professionally: End with a polite thank you.
8. Sign-Off: Use a formal closing and include your full name.

Example Template

Subject: Thank You – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Interview

Dear [Interviewer’s Name],

Thank you for taking the time to meet with me on [interview date] regarding the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I'm grateful for the chance to talk about how my qualifications and experiences meet the demands of your organization.

I am very excited about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to [specific project or aspect of the role discussed]. Our conversation reinforced my enthusiasm for the role and the company’s mission.

Please let me know if you need any additional information or if there are further steps I should take. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your LinkedIn Profile]

What should I do if I don’t get a response to my follow-up email after an interview

If you don’t get a response to your follow-up email after an interview, here’s what you can do;

1. Wait a Bit Longer: Sometimes, delays happen. Give it an additional week or two beyond your last follow-up before taking further action.
2. Send a Final Follow-Up: If you haven’t heard back after a reasonable amount of time, send a polite, brief follow-up email. Discuss any developments in the employment process and convey your continued interest.
3. Review Your Approach: Ensure your follow-up emails were clear, polite, and professional. If you haven’t been getting responses, it might be worth reassessing your approach or timing.
4. Consider Other Contact Methods: If you have a contact number or LinkedIn profile for the interviewer, you might try reaching out through those channels, but keep it professional and respectful.
5. Move On: If you still don’t get a response after your final follow-up, it’s important to move on. Continue your job search and explore other opportunities. Sometimes, companies get busy or decide to go in a different direction.
6. Reflect and Learn: Reflect on the interview process and your follow-up strategy to improve for future opportunities.

Can following up after an interview improve my chances of getting the job

Yes, following up after an interview can improve your chances of getting the job. Here’s how;

1. Shows Enthusiasm: A follow-up email demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and the company, which can set you apart from other candidates.
2. Keeps You Top of Mind: It helps keep you on the interviewer’s radar, especially if they are evaluating multiple candidates.
3. Reinforces Your Fit: A well-crafted follow-up allows you to briefly reiterate why you’re a great fit for the position and address any key points discussed during the interview.
4. Demonstrates Professionalism: It reflects good communication skills and professionalism, which are qualities that employers value.
5. Opens Communication: It can prompt the interviewer to provide updates or feedback, giving you more insight into your status in the hiring process.

What is the best format for a follow-up email after a job interview

The best way to write a follow-up email after a job interview is to keep it clear, short, and professional. Here’s a simple guide to follow;

1. Subject Line: Keep it straightforward and professional. For example, "Thank You – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Interview."
2. Greeting: Address the interviewer by their name and make sure it’s spelled correctly.
3. Express Gratitude: Start by thanking them for their time and the chance to interview.
4. Reiterate Interest: Mention that you’re still interested in the job and the company.
5. Highlight Key Points: Briefly touch on a specific topic or skill from the interview that shows you’re a great fit.
6. Offer Additional Information: Let them know you’re happy to provide more details or answer more questions.
7. Inquire About Next Steps: Politely ask about what happens next in the hiring process or if they need anything else from you.
8. Close Professionally: End with a polite thank you and a professional closing.
9. Sign-Off: Use a formal closing and include your full name.

Example Email

Subject: Thank You – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Interview

Dear [Interviewer’s Name],

Thank you for meeting with me on [interview date] regarding the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my background and skills align with the needs of your team.

I remain very interested in the role and am excited about the possibility of contributing to [specific project or aspect discussed]. Please let me know if you need any further information or if there are updates on the hiring process.

Thank you again for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your LinkedIn Profile]

Should I send a follow-up email after a second interview

Yes, you should send a follow-up email after a second interview. Here's why;

1. Say Thanks: Thank the interviewers for their time and for considering you.
2. Show Your Interest: Confirm that you’re still excited about the job and why you’re a good fit.
3. Mention Key Points: Talk about specific parts of the interview that highlight why you’re right for the role or clear up any details.
4. Ask About Next Steps: Politely ask what happens next in the hiring process.

Following up after a second interview is a good way to be professional, stay on their radar, and show that you’re still interested in the job.

How do I express interest in the job in a follow-up email

To show your interest in the job in a follow-up email, you can;

1. Show Your Excitement: Mention that you’re excited about the job and the company.
2. Refer to the Interview: Talk about specific things you liked about the job or company, especially those you discussed in the interview.
3. Explain Why You’re a Good Fit: Briefly describe why you’re a strong match for the role and how your skills fit the job.
4. Express Your Eagerness: Mention that you’re excited about the chance to join the team and are looking forward to the next steps.

Example

In your follow-up email, you might write;

"I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. Our discussion about [specific project or responsibility] further confirmed my excitement about the role. With my background in [relevant skill or expertise], I think I could make a valuable contribution to your team. I am looking forward to the next steps in the process and am eager to be a part of your team."

What tone should I use in a follow-up email after a job interview

In a follow-up email after a job interview, you should use a professional and positive tone. Here’s how to achieve that;

1. Polite and Respectful: Always use courteous language and show appreciation for the interviewer's time.
2. Enthusiastic: Express genuine excitement about the role and the company, but avoid coming across as overly eager or desperate.
3. Confident: Be assured about your qualifications and fit for the role, without being arrogant.
4. Concise and Clear: Keep your message brief and to the point, focusing on key details without unnecessary elaboration.
5. Professional: Maintain a formal tone throughout, using proper grammar and avoiding slang or overly casual language.

Should I mention additional qualifications or ideas in a follow-up email

Yes, it’s okay to mention extra qualifications or ideas in a follow-up email, but do it carefully. Here’s how;

1. Be Relevant: Only mention qualifications or ideas that are directly related to the job or what was discussed in the interview.
2. Keep It Short: Focus on one or two important points you didn’t get to discuss during the interview, but make it brief.
3. Show How It Helps: Briefly explain how these qualifications or ideas could be useful for the company or the team.
4. Optional: If the interview already covered everything, you can just show your enthusiasm and fit for the role without adding new information.

Example

"You might include any further details or expertise that you believe would be helpful in a concise manner like this."

“I wanted to mention that in addition to my experience with [specific skill], I also have expertise in [additional qualification] that I believe could be valuable for [specific aspect of the job]. I would be happy to discuss this further if it’s relevant to your needs.”

Is it unprofessional to follow up with the interviewer directly

No, it’s not unprofessional to follow up with the interviewer directly, as long as you do it politely and at the right time. It can show initiative and professionalism if done properly. Here are some points to remember;

1. Timing: Wait a few days after the interview (typically 1-2 business days) before sending your follow-up, giving them time to process the interview.
2. Be Respectful: Keep your tone polite and professional, showing appreciation for their time and consideration.
3. Use the Right Method: If the interviewer gave you their contact information or encouraged you to follow up, emailing them directly is perfectly fine. If not, following up through a recruiter or the HR contact might be more appropriate.
4. Be Brief: Keep the follow-up short and to the point, reiterating your interest in the position and politely asking about the next steps.

Can I follow up after an interview via phone or should I stick to email

It’s usually best to follow up after an interview via email rather than phone. Here’s why;

1. Professionalism: Email is generally seen as a more formal and appropriate method for follow-ups.
2. Record Keeping: Email provides a written record of your communication, which can be helpful for both you and the interviewer.
3. Convenience: Email allows the interviewer to respond at their convenience, whereas a phone call might be disruptive or inconvenient.
4. Preferred Method: If the interviewer specifically mentioned that phone calls are welcome or provided a phone number for follow-ups, then calling could be appropriate. Otherwise, stick to email.

However, if you decide to call

1. Timing: Make sure to call at a reasonable time during business hours.
2. Preparation: Be ready to keep the call brief and professional.
3. Respect Preferences: If they prefer email or another method of communication, follow their instructions.

What should I include in a follow-up email to stand out from other candidates

To make your follow-up email stand out, include these elements;

1. Personal Touch: Mention something specific from your interview to show you were paying attention. Talk about a topic or detail you discussed.
2. Unique Value: Point out a special skill or experience you have that sets you apart from others. Briefly explain how this can help the company.
3. Enthusiasm: Show your genuine excitement for the job and the company. Explain why you’re interested in this role and how it fits with your career plans.
4. Professionalism: Make sure your email is well-written, with no mistakes, and looks professional. This shows your good communication skills.
5. Additional Insights: If relevant, follow up on something you talked about or share a useful idea related to the job. This shows you’re proactive.
6. Next Steps: Politely ask about what happens next in the hiring process or if they need any more information from you.

What are some examples of good follow-up emails after an interview

Here are some simple examples of follow-up emails after an interview;

Example 1: Basic Follow-Up

Subject: Thank You – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Interview

Hi [Interviewer's Name],

Thanks for meeting with me on [interview date] about the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. I liked talking about how my skills align with what your team needs.

I’m excited about the chance to work at [Company Name] and contribute to [specific part of the job]. Let me know if you need any more information or if there are updates on the hiring process.

Best,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Phone Number]

Example 2: Follow-Up with Additional Information

Subject: Follow-Up – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Interview

Hi [Interviewer's Name],

Thank you again for our interview on [interview date]. I enjoyed learning more about the [Job Title] role and [Company Name].

After our chat, I came up with an idea about [specific project or challenge] that might be helpful. I’d be glad to talk about it further if you’re interested.

Please let me know if you need any more details or have updates on the hiring process.

Thanks for considering my application.

Best,

[Your Full Name]

[Your LinkedIn Profile]

Example 3: Follow-Up with Reiterated Interest and Unique Value

Subject: Thank You – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Interview

Hi [Interviewer's Name],

Thanks for our conversation on [interview date] about the [Job Title] position. I'm even more excited about the chance to work at [Company Name].

I think my experience with [specific skill or project] will be really valuable for [specific challenge or project]. I’m eager to bring this experience to your team.

Let me know if there are any updates or if you need more information from me.

Thanks again for your time.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

Example 4: Follow-Up After a Second Interview

Subject: Thank You – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Second Interview

Hi [Interviewer's Name],

I wanted to thank you for meeting with me again on [interview date]. It was great to discuss the [Job Title] role in more detail and how I can contribute to [Company Name].

Our talk about [specific topic or project] made me even more excited about the position. I’m looking forward to potentially using my skills in [specific skill] to help achieve [specific goal or project].

Please let me know if you need any more information or if there are updates on the hiring process.

Best,

[Your Full Name]

[Your LinkedIn Profile]

[Your Phone Number]

Key points

• Create the follow-up document for the initial interview within 24hrs after the interview.
• Submit every employer a specific and unique email with whom you spoke on the phone for various job positions at several organizations.  
• In general, when checking back on a second interview, be descriptive. 
• Consider how you can assist the organization with their concerns.
• If you don't get an answer after the set date, compose another follow-up email to request a review.
• If you have got another job proposal, follow up much earlier, whether or not you intend to take it.
• Keep in contact with the organization, even if you don't have the job. Connectivity is essential lately than before.

Now you have all the necessary information about following-up after the job interview.