How to Follow Up After an Interview
The competition in the job market is tough. In order to set yourself apart from the rest of the pack, you have to be strategic. In previous WTI blogs we have talked about mistakes to avoid during an interview and questions to ask during an interview, but what happens after the interview? Here are three ways to follow up with your interviewer to leave one last positive impression.
Send a thank you note.
After every interview you should follow up with a thank you note. You should send an e-mail thanking the employer within 24 hours of the interview. Some people also send actual thank you cards through the mail. Whichever option you choose, the content in the note should be the same.
- Thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you.
- Remind them of something that was discussed in the interview.
- Remind them why you are a great candidate for the position.
For example, “Mr. Smith, thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me today. I was really excited to hear that the medical assisting position would give me the opportunity to work directly with patients as well as the nursing staff. I believe my experience working in a nursing home for the past year has given me the skills I need to be successful in the position and I look forward to hearing from you soon.”
Call to inquire about the position.
Before an interview is over, ask the interviewer if there is a timeline for when a candidate will be selected for the position. A good time to call would be a few days before the employer makes their decision. Like the thank you note, this call will serve as a chance for you to remind the employer why you are the best candidate for the job. Here are three tips to ensure you have a successful follow up call.
Be prepared. It is important to think about what you are going to say before the call. You can even write down a few key talking points. Before the call, practice, you don’t want to stumble over your words.
Be concise. The potential employer is probably busy. They will appreciate you calling to check in if you make sure to keep your call short and sweet. This will ensure that you are memorable without becoming annoying.
Be persuasive. Let them know that you are still interested in the position if it is available. Remind them of something you discussed during the interview and remind them of the skills and experience you have. Tell them how impressed you were with the company and thank them again for their time.
Connect with the potential employer.
During your interview ask if you can have a business card. This will ensure that you have the correct contact information. Once you get the business card ask if you can connect with the interviewer on LinkedIn. Most professionals are on LinkedIn and connecting with them can be a great way to follow up. Once you connect with a potential employer on LinkedIn you should:
- Follow their company
- View their profile
- Like/comment on their posts
LinkedIn is a great way to set yourself apart. By following the company, viewing the interviewer’s profile, and interacting on LinkedIn you will stand out as someone who takes initiative. The information you learn about the interviewer on their profile might give you a unique discussion point the next time you speak to them. You may even discover shared connections or similar work experience. It is always important to research both the company and the potential employer.
Following up after an interview can be a great way to keep your name at the top of mind. It might even help you land a job. However, even if you do not get the job, the way you interact with an interviewer is very important. If you find out you did not get the job, send a note thanking the interviewer again for their consideration and continue to keep in contact with them through LinkedIn. They may keep you in mind the next time a position opens up.
