When you’re looking for a job, your work isn’t done the moment you leave the hiring manager’s office. Typically, a level of follow-up is expected, and failing to do so could leave a negative impression on the interviewer, ultimately costing you the job. But following up in the correct way is just as important. You want to touch on the right points and check specific boxes if you want to make sure your message helps you secure the position. Here’s what you need to know about following up.
Say Thank You
One of the most important steps you must take is to follow up with the interviewer and thank them for taking the time to meet you. Most hiring managers are busy, and dedicating an hour out of their day to interview you isn’t always easy to manage.
Saying “thank you” shows you appreciate their time. And that can go a long way by itself.
Reaffirm Your Interest
Your follow-up email also gives you an opportunity to reiterate your interest in the job. You can demonstrate your excitement by touching on parts of the interview that particularly peaked your interest, such as specific job duties or potential projects. This also shows you were engaged during the meeting and paid attention to the details that were shared with you. Overall, it’s a strong move if you are truly interested in getting the job.
Cover Important Details
During follow-up, mention key points that may have accidentally been missed when you met in person. If there were certain qualifications or details that weren’t mentioned because they didn’t naturally come up during the conversation, you can include that information here. This gives you a chance to fill in any incidental blanks and give the hiring manager more information about why you are a great candidate.
How and When to Follow Up
This is one time when email is likely your best option. It allows you to compose the message carefully and ensure it is delivered quickly after the interview is complete. Before your interview ends, collect business cards from the hiring manager (and other interviewers, if there was a panel). This allows you to connect with everyone involved with ease, and you don’t have to worry about remembering names or trying to look up contact information after the fact.
In most cases, you should follow up within 24 hours. However, you don’t have to wait any specific amount of time when following up via email. This means, as soon as you get home or can access your email from a mobile device, feel free to craft the message and send it.
If you are interested in learning more about following up after an interview or would like information about open positions in your area, the professionals at The Squires Group can help. Contact us today.
