Follow Up after Interviews
From crafting a stellar thank-you letter to managing the post-interview process with elegance, there are a few things you should know about the period that follows an interview. What you do after the interview can influence what happens next.
Be Quick to Express Thanks
- Collect business cards throughout the interview process. Store them in one place.
- Be quick to say thanks. Include anyone you met with.
- Follow the 24-hour rule. Follow up within 24 hours, or faster if a decision is imminent.
- Be mindful. Avoid quickly written mobile emails. These are more likely to include spelling errors.
Be Patient
There are few things more nerve-wracking than awaiting interview results, but be respectful of the interviewers' time. You may be the last person interviewed...or the first.
- Stay calm. If you do not hear back right away, don't panic. The interview phase can last weeks.
- Ask about next steps. This will help you plan communication during the decision phase.
- Don't over-communicate. After the initial thank you, avoid daily requests for a hiring decision.
- Stay in touch. While you do not want to contact the hiring manager repeatedly, it is fine to call or email periodically.
- Remain professional. Even if another candidate is hired, you may be the perfect fit for another opening. Maintain that good impression.