How to follow up an interview

Whether you receive a job offer or not, following up an interview is crucial for the next steps in your job search process. Regular communication helps both parties understand the stage they’re at and what follows. 

While the common feedback to a job interview is you’re either successful or unsuccessful, there’s much more to it. Identifying the reasons why you ticked the boxes and made a good impression is key, but also understanding where you fell short is equally as important; whether from the recruiter or directly from the hiring manager. 


Why is following up on an interview important? 


Following up after an interview could certainly work in your favour, even if you feel like you or your interviewer didn’t get the answers that were desired. 

This shows your professionalism and proactivity towards the position. They also allow you to reconfirm your interest and suitability for the position. 


When you should follow up on an interview? 


Usually after the interview, your interviewer or recruiter will provide a deadline in terms of when you should hear back regarding the next stage (if there is one) of your interview; or whether you have received an offer. Following up with a thank you note shortly after the interview is common, following up shortly before the deadline has come and gone is recommended.  

Whilst thanking the interviewer for their time and opportunity are common courtesies, how should you follow up an interview? 


A post-interview thank you note 


As we previously highlighted, a post-interview ‘thank you’ note showcases your gratitude for the opportunity and shows common courtesy. The best time to send a thank you note would be within 24 hours of completing your interview. If you find your interview lands approaching the weekend, such as on a Friday, send the note on the weekend so your interviewer finds it as they open their inbox on Monday. 

Your note should highlight the following: 
 

•    Thanking them for the opportunity to interview
•    Express your continued interest in the role and company project 
•    Your excitement about the possibility of contributing with your skills 
•    Your eagerness to await a response soon 


Interview chaser email 


A note or in this case, an email chasing a response should only be considered when you have not heard any feedback once the date that was initially agreed for feedback has passed. 

A delay in feedback can occur for various reasons. Perhaps the interview process has taken longer than anticipated, or your interviewer has fallen ill or there has been miscommunication between the hiring manager and your recruiter. 

This can be solved by sending an email to the interviewer requesting an update on the hiring process. You note should highlight the following: 
 

•    Thank them (again) for the interview opportunity 
•    Request an update on the hiring process 
•    Request an update on feedback for your interview
•    Reassure your interest and excitement for the opportunity 
•    Assure them they can reach out to you should they require further information 


Following up with an interview can be inconvenient at times, but necessary. It can leave a positive impression on both the recruiter and hiring manager, whilst developing your communication skills. 

You may find our guide on How to Accept a Job Offer helpful.