How Following Up Can Secure Your Dream Job

From sending a thank-you note to checking in on the status of your application, your follow-up strategy can give you a significant edge over other candidates, but it’s essential to know the best practices in order not to come across as overeager or miss crucial opportunities. In this article, we’ll discuss the fundamentals and provide you with a 3-step follow-up email sequence template to improve your chances of landing your dream job.

Related: How to Write a Perfect Thank You Email After an Interview

10 Best Examples & Templates of An Interview Thank You Email

Follow-Up Email After an Interview [Best Examples]

The Importance of Following Up

Showing Interest and Enthusiasm

Following up with a hiring manager after an interview or application demonstrates your commitment to the job search and your genuine interest in the company. By taking the initiative to stay in contact, you show that you’re proactive and persistent, qualities that many employers value. It also indicates that you have a strong desire to contribute to the organization’s success, setting you apart from other candidates.

Reinforcing Your Qualifications

A well-crafted follow-up message serves as a reminder of your unique skills and experience. It provides an opportunity to showcase your relevant qualifications and highlight any achievements you may not have mentioned during the interview. By discussing your compatibility with the company and the specific role, you can reinforce why you are the ideal candidate, solidifying your position in the hiring manager’s mind.

Staying on the Hiring Manager’s Radar

With numerous candidates vying for the same job, maintaining visibility is crucial. Following up keeps you on the hiring manager’s radar, showing them that you are still interested in the position and are actively engaged in the process. This can help you stand out from other applicants who may not have taken the same proactive approach.

Timing and Method of the Follow-Up

When to Follow Up

It’s crucial to consider the proper timeline for following up after your job interview. The first step is to send a thank-you note within 24 hours after your interview. This note should express your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position.

Related: How to Write a Perfect Thank You Email After an Interview

After that, wait for the timeline the recruiter or hiring manager provided to hear back about the job’s status. If you don’t receive any response within that period, you can consider sending a follow-up email. A good rule of thumb is to wait about a week after the stated timeline.

How to Follow Up

• Email:
  When sending a follow-up email, keep the subject line clear and concise, such as “Following Up on [Position Name] Interview.” Ensure you address the recruiter or hiring manager by name and maintain a polite and professional tone throughout your email. Briefly mention key points from the interview that you’d like to emphasize, and ask for an update on the hiring process.
• Phone call:
  If you prefer to follow up via phone, ensure you call during regular business hours. Be prepared to either speak with the recruiter or hiring manager directly or to leave a voicemail. In both cases, be brief, professional, and mention your interest in the role and your previous interaction.
• LinkedIn connection:
  As an additional touchpoint, you may also consider connecting with the recruiter or hiring manager on LinkedIn after your thank-you note. Make sure to add a personalized note with your connection request, reminding them of your recent interview and expressing your interest in staying connected.

Creating an Effective Follow-Up Message

Structure and Content

When crafting your follow-up message, pay attention to its structure and content. Start with a clear subject line mentioning the job interview and your name. In the body of the email, express your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position. Then, ask a relevant question or two about the role or the hiring process. This not only shows genuine engagement but can also keep the conversation going.

Highlight specific skills and experiences you have that align with the job requirements. Briefly touch upon any additional qualifications or achievements you may not have discussed during the interview. To close the message, thank the recipient for their time and consideration and express your eagerness for any next steps. Be sure to proofread your message before sending it.

Personalizing Your Message

Tailor your follow-up message by personalizing it for each recipient. Address the message to the interviewer or hiring manager by their name, and mention any notable conversations you had during the interview process. This will help the recipient recall your meeting and create a more meaningful connection. You can also demonstrate knowledge of the company by referencing specific projects or initiatives you are excited to contribute to if you land the job, showcasing your enthusiasm for the role and the organization.

Template: Follow-up email sequence after a job interview

Email 1 (24-48 hours after the interview):

(Thank-You note)

Dear [Interviewer’s Name],

I wanted to take a moment to thank you for taking the time to speak with me about the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I appreciate the opportunity to learn more about the company and the role, and I’m excited about the possibility of joining your team.

I particularly enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic discussed during the interview], and I’m confident that my skills and experience would make me a valuable asset to your organization. If you need any further information or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Thank you again for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

More templates and examples of a Thank-You email after a job interview: 10 Best Examples & Templates of An Interview Thank You Email

Related: How to Write a Perfect Thank You Email After an Interview

Email 2 (1 week after the interview):

(Checking In)

Dear [Interviewer’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on our interview last week and see if there are any updates on the hiring process for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].

I remain very interested in the opportunity to work with your team, and I’m excited about the prospect of contributing to your organization’s success. If there’s anything else I can provide or any questions I can answer, please let me know.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Email 3 (2-3 weeks after the interview):

(Final Follow-Up)

Dear [Interviewer’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up one last time regarding the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].

I remain very interested in the opportunity to work with your team, and I’m confident that my skills and experience would make me a valuable asset to your organization. If there are any updates on the hiring process or anything else I can provide, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Thank you again for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Following up is an essential step to show your enthusiasm for the position and your commitment to the company. By following up, you can demonstrate your professionalism and stand out from other candidates. Be polite and patient, but persistent in your approach. With the right follow-up strategy, you can increase your chances of getting hired and start your dream career, so don’t hesitate to follow up after an interview or application, and take the initiative to make your dream job a reality.

Related: Follow-Up Email After an Interview [Best Examples]

How to Write a Perfect Thank You Email After an Interview

10 Best Examples & Templates of An Interview Thank You Email