Making a follow-up call after a job interview can boost your chances of getting hired. Phone calls give you a direct connection that emails can’t match. Your voice helps build a personal link with the employer, and you can respond to their feedback right away. This article will walk you through real examples of follow-up calls that get results.
Understanding the Value of Follow-Up After an Interview
Making a follow-up call proves you’re truly excited about the role. You can say something like “I wanted to check in about the position and express my continued interest in joining your team.”
The way you handle follow-up contact demonstrates your professional communication skills. Speaking clearly and confidently shows you’ll bring those same qualities to the job.
A good follow-up reminds the employer about your best qualities. You might mention specific points from your interview: “I’ve been thinking more about the project management needs you described, and I’m confident my experience would be valuable.”
Assessing Your Fit for the Role Based on Feedback
Follow-up calls let you gather helpful feedback about your interview performance. You could ask: “Is there any additional information I can provide about my qualifications?”
This feedback helps you understand your chances and improve for future interviews. You might learn what skills or experience the employer values most.
Listen carefully to the tone and details in their response: their level of engagement often signals how strong a candidate you are.
The Impact on Hiring Manager Perceptions
Hiring managers often view follow-up calls as a sign of genuine interest and professionalism. Your call shows you take initiative and value clear communication.
The timing matters – waiting 3-5 business days after an interview is often ideal. You can say: “I appreciate your time last week and wanted to touch base about next steps.”
Preparing for Your Follow-Up Call
Take notes about your job application before making the call. Write down the job title, company name, and when you applied.
You might want to call during less busy times – mid-morning or mid-afternoon often work best.
Keep your resume nearby during the call. You can refer to key points that match what the employer needs.
Make a list of 2-3 questions about the role or next steps in the hiring process. Some good options:
- “What is your timeline for making a decision?”
- “Is there any additional information I can provide?”
- “When would be a good time to check back?”
Follow-Up Call Examples and Templates
A well-planned follow-up call helps you stand out and shows your interest in the position. You can use these simple scripts to reach out with confidence and professionalism.
- “Hi [name], I’m [your name] calling about the [job title] position I applied for on [date]. I wanted to make sure you received my application and see if you need any additional information.”
- “Good morning [name], this is [your name]. I submitted my resume last [day] for the [position] role and wanted to check on the status of my application.”
- “Hello [name], [your name] here. I’m very interested in the [job title] opening and wanted to confirm my application was received. I have [key skill] that matches what you’re looking for.”
- “Hi, I’m [name]. I applied for the [job title] position on [date] and wanted to confirm you received my application. I’m excited about bringing my [key skill] to your team.”
- “Good morning! This is [name] following up about the [position]. My [relevant experience] aligns perfectly with what you’re looking for.”
- “Hello, [name] here. I submitted my resume last [timeframe] for your [role]. I’d love to discuss how my background in [industry/skill] could benefit your company.”
Remember to smile while speaking – it makes your voice sound warmer and more confident.
Tips for success:
- Call between 9-11 AM or 2-4 PM
- Have your resume ready
- Write down 2-3 key points about your qualifications
- Keep the call under 2 minutes
Follow Up Call After an Interview
Basic template: “Hello [Name], this is [Your Name] following up on our interview for the [Position] on [Date]. I really enjoyed learning more about [Company] and wanted to check if you’ve made a decision.”
Professional option: “Hi [Name], [Your Name] calling. I wanted to thank you again for meeting with me about the [Job Title] role. I’m still very excited about the opportunity and wondered if you have an update on the timeline.”
Friendly approach: “Good morning [Name], it’s [Your Name]. After our discussion about [Specific Topic] during the interview, I had some additional thoughts to share. Do you have a moment?”
Key points to remember:
- Call within 3-5 days after the interview
- Mention something specific from your conversation
- Sound enthusiastic but professional
- Be ready to schedule a second interview
Sample Phrases for a Follow-Up Call
A well-planned follow-up call can boost your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. Good phone skills and careful timing make a real difference in the results you get. Make sure you’re in a quiet place with good phone service before making the call.
Sample phrases you can use:
- “Good morning, thank you for taking my call”
- “I’m interested in learning more about the position”
- “I wanted to check on the status of my application”
- “I’m excited about the opportunity to join your team”
- “I appreciate your time today”
- “I’d love to discuss my qualifications further”
- “The role seems like a perfect match for my skills”
- “I’m calling to express my continued interest”
- “Would you have a few minutes to discuss my application?”
- “I believe my experience would be valuable to your company”
Addressing the HR or Hiring Manager
Keep notes handy about the job and your application details.
Try these phrases:
- “May I please speak with Ms. Smith?”
- “I applied for the marketing position last week”
- “I wanted to confirm you received my application”
- “My name is [your name], and I submitted my resume on [date]”
- “I’m following up about the sales position”
- “Could you tell me about the next steps?”
- “I’m available for an interview at your convenience”
- “Is there any additional information you need?”
- “I can send more references if needed”
- “What is the timeline for making a decision?”
Leaving a Voicemail If Necessary
Keep voicemails brief and clear. (Speak slowly when leaving your contact information.)
Effective voicemail examples:
- “Hello, this is [name] calling about the [position]”
- “I can be reached at [phone number]”
- “The best time to reach me is [time]”
- “I’m calling to follow up on my application”
- “Please call me back at your earliest convenience”
- “I look forward to speaking with you soon”
- “I’ll try calling again tomorrow afternoon”
- “You can also reach me by email at [address]”
- “Thank you for considering my application”
- “I’m very interested in joining your team”
Guidelines for Writing a Follow-Up Email
A well-written follow-up email keeps you connected with employers and shows your continued interest in the position. It helps you stay visible during the hiring process and demonstrates your communication skills.
Following Email Etiquette
- Start with a clear subject line like “Following Up – [Position Name] Interview.”
- Make your email brief – aim for 3-4 short paragraphs at most. Address the recipient by name and mention your interview date or last contact.
- Express gratitude for their time and restate your interest in the role. You can include a brief highlight from your conversation to help them remember you.
- Proofread carefully before sending. Check for spelling, grammar, and tone. Send your email during business hours, ideally between 9 AM and 5 PM.
Sample Follow-Up Email Examples
“Subject: Following Up – Marketing Coordinator Interview
Dear Ms. Johnson,
Thank you for meeting with me yesterday about the Marketing Coordinator position. I enjoyed learning more about your team’s goals for the upcoming year.
I’m very excited about the opportunity to contribute to your social media campaigns. My experience managing similar projects at ABC Company aligns well with your needs.
Please let me know if you need any additional information from me.
Best regards,
Your Name”
You can also send a shorter check-in:
“Subject: Marketing Coordinator Position Update
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I hope you’re well. I’m writing to check on the status of the Marketing Coordinator position we discussed last week.
I remain very interested in joining your team and look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
Your Name”
Handle the Outcome Professionally
If Offered an Interview or Job
Thank the person right away for the opportunity. You might say “I appreciate you taking the time to consider my application” or “Thank you for this exciting opportunity.”
- Be ready to schedule your interview. Keep your calendar handy and respond quickly with your availability.
- Ask about next steps, like required documents or forms to complete.
- Write down key details about time, location, and who you’ll meet.
If No Response or Negative Feedback
Express gratitude for their time and consideration. You can say “Thank you for letting me know” or “I appreciate you reviewing my application.”
- Ask politely if they could share any feedback about your application or interview. This can help you improve for future opportunities.
- Make a note to check back in a few months about new openings. Many companies keep strong candidates’ information for future positions.
- Stay positive and professional. The job market changes often, and maintaining good relationships can lead to future opportunities.