So you've left the interview room with a firm handshake, and that's it, right? Wrong. The real game changer could be your follow up email after the interview.
It's not just about courtesy. It’s a strategic move to keep you at the forefront of the hiring manager's mind. 85% of HR professionals agree that a follow-up email shows a candidate's enthusiasm for the role and 50% of hiring managers say they take note of who sends a follow-up email and who doesn't. So it's obvious that you need to send one.
But what goes into it? When should you send it? What should you avoid?
Don't worry, we've got you.
This article will walk you through crafting an email that makes an impact without crossing into pesky territory.
In this blog, you'll discover when to hit send for maximum effect and how personal touches can align your skills with company goals—potentially swinging doors wide open. Plus, get ready-to-use templates that nail professionalism while expressing genuine thanks. Let this guide lead you toward turning post-interview protocol into job offer gold.
Crafting the Perfect Follow-Up Email After an Interview
Knowing how to craft a follow-up email after an interview is crucial in today's competitive job market. It's not just about thanking your interviewer; it’s about reinforcing your interest and fit for the role.
Forgetting to send a thank you note is the No. 1 mistake job seekers can make, says l, because it signals to a hiring manager that you aren’t really interested in the role. In a still-tight job market, employers are struggling with being ghosted by candidates, or rejected at the eleventh hour.
-Ian Siege, ZipRecruiter CEO
Tip #1: Time Your Follow-Up Email for Maximum Impact
Don't wait too long to send a follow-up message. Approximately 94% of HR managers say it's appropriate to send a follow-up email within 24 hours after an interview.
Sending a thank-you note within 24 hours of your interview shows eagerness and respect for the hiring manager's time, but what truly makes it effective is striking while the iron is hot—when you're still fresh in their mind. Interestingly, though 91% of employers appreciate receiving follow-up notes, over half of candidates miss out on this chance to shine by neglecting this step. So, send that email promptly.
Tip #2: Structure Your Follow-Up Email Effectively
Your post-interview follow-up should start with a formal salutation using the interviewer's name—it adds that personal touch. Next up, express gratitude for their time today before moving into highlighting detailed work experience or skills discussed during the conversation that align with company goals.
The content should reflect genuine interest in contributing to ongoing projects or solving challenges mentioned during discussions—an approach that can make all the difference between landing on top of—or sinking beneath—the pile of contenders waiting anxiously beside you.
A well-crafted email may not only bring back memories from your discussion but also demonstrate professionalism and dedication—all key traits sought by recruiters navigating through tough decision-making processes amidst heaps of resumes and cover letters.
By strategically crafting emails that are concise yet impactful, you can showcase your desire for career advancement and demonstrate your commitment to mutual success. This approach positions you as a valuable asset who is eager to contribute and grow within the company's ranks.
The Art of Personalizing Your Email After An Interview
Tip #3: Echo Interview Highlights in Your Follow-Up
Personalization can transform a generic follow-up email into one that captures the hiring manager's attention. Start by reflecting on your interview experience and identifying moments that stood out—maybe it was a shared interest or a deep dive into company challenges. By weaving these highlights into your follow-up correspondence, you show that you were engaged and have thought about how to contribute positively to their team.
Remember, an effective post-interview follow-up email should not just thank the interviewer for their time but also reinforce why you are the right fit for the job title in question. Use this opportunity to connect your detailed work experience with specific points discussed during the interview, showing them again how aligned you are with both role expectations and company culture.
Tip #4: Align Your Skills with Company Goals
A powerful personalization strategy involves aligning your skills directly with what matters most: The company’s goals. Did they mention expanding markets or improving certain processes? Here is where you highlight relevant experiences from past roles or particular skill sets which could help achieve those objectives.
Tying back your expertise to these areas does more than demonstrate understanding—it suggests immediate value-adds if given a chance at this job offer. It makes clear not only did you listen but also proactively considered ways to be instrumental within their organization moving forward.
Tip #5: Match Your Thank You to the Company Culture
If the company pushes the envelope with their culture or even a unique application process, rethink how you send a thank you note, too. For example, you might send a video thank you if your application required a video submission. This might work especially well if you're applying for a remote job, too.
If the office seems very traditional and you really want the job, you shouldn’t even think about not sending a post-interview note. If the office culture is not traditional? Read the company cues in the interview: If the boss says they don’t require cover letters because they’re a waste of time, they’re likely not going to expect a thank you letter — especially one that’s cut-and-paste boilerplate.
-Holly Quinn, Reporter
Subject Lines That Open Doors Post-Interview
Your subject line is the first impression you make on a hiring manager post-interview. It can be the difference between an opened email and one that's passed over. A well-crafted subject line captures attention and sets the tone for your follow-up message.
Tip #5: Make Your Subject Line Clear
Consider using phrases like "Thank You - [Your Name] Interview" or "Following Up from Our Conversation," which are clear, direct, and professional. They reference a shared experience, helping to jog the recipient's memory in a crowded inbox.
If your interview touched on specific company goals or projects, tailor your subject line to reflect that discussion: "Eager to Contribute to [Project/Goal Mentioned]." This not only shows attentiveness but also aligns with what matters most to them—their objectives.
Avoid generic lines such as "Checking In" or "Follow-Up." Instead, opt for something personalized yet succinct; think about how it relates back to your conversation or any notable moment during the interview process.
For instance, if there was a particular topic you both enjoyed discussing, referencing this in your subject lines for follow-up emails after an interview could spark interest and remind them of who you are beyond just another name on their schedule.
Standing out isn't just good—it's essential in today's competitive job market where every detail counts towards making that lasting impression needed for landing job offers.
Proven Templates and Examples for Post-Interview Follow Up Emails
Emailing after an interview is more than a courtesy--it's another chance to impress. Remember, 91% of employers like receiving follow up notes, yet over half the candidates miss out on this opportunity.
Tip #6: Follow Up After a Phone Interview
Sending a phone interview follow up email shows you're genuinely interested in the position. Start with gratitude: thank them for their time today.
Then reiterate your enthusiasm about the job title and how your detailed work experience aligns with what they need. Close by saying you look forward to potentially joining their team and contributing to company goals.
Like this:
Subject: Following Up on [Job Title] Position
Dear [Interviewer's name],
I wanted to follow up regarding the [Job Title] position. It has been a week since our interview, and I am eager to know if there are any updates on the selection process.
I remain very interested in the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to [specific project or aspect of the job]. Please let me know if there is any further information I can provide.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tip #7: Follow Up After an In-Person Interview
In-person interviews allow you to pick up on company culture first hand--a valuable insight that should shape your post-interview communication. Reflect back specific details from your conversation or express appreciation for learning about certain aspects of the job; it shows active listening and genuine interest.
Like this:
Subject: Continued Interest in [Job Title] Opportunity
Hi [Interviewer's Name],
It was wonderful meeting face-to-face yesterday. I particularly enjoyed learning about [specific project/initiative].
My past role at [company name] involved similar responsibilities, and I'm excited about bringing that expertise to your team. Looking forward to hearing from you regarding next steps.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Hi [Interviewer's Name],
It was wonderful meeting face-to-face yesterday. I particularly enjoyed learning about [specific project/initiative].
My past role at [company name] involved similar responsibilities, and I'm excited about bringing that expertise to your team. Looking forward to hearing from you regarding next steps.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
3 Bonus Example Templates
Example 1: Checking In After Specified Time Frame
Subject: Checking In: [Job Title] Position
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
As we discussed, I'm following up to inquire about the [Job Title] position. You mentioned that the decision would likely be made by [specified time frame], and I am eager to hear any updates.
I am still very interested in the opportunity to work with [Company Name] and believe that my skills in [relevant skills or experience] would be a great fit for your team.
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to any update you can provide.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
As we discussed, I'm following up to inquire about the [Job Title] position. You mentioned that the decision would likely be made by [specified time frame], and I am eager to hear any updates.
I am still very interested in the opportunity to work with [Company Name] and believe that my skills in [relevant skills or experience] would be a great fit for your team.
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to any update you can provide.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Brief Check-In Email
Subject: Status Update on [Job Title] Position
Hello [Interviewer's Name],
I’m just checking in on the status of the [Job Title] position. I remain highly interested in the role and am keen to know about any progress in the hiring process.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to any update you might have.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Hello [Interviewer's Name],
I’m just checking in on the status of the [Job Title] position. I remain highly interested in the role and am keen to know about any progress in the hiring process.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to any update you might have.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Enthusiastic and Detailed Follow-Up
Subject: Enthusiastic Follow-Up on [Job Title] Role
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
I'm writing to follow up on the [Job Title] position. Since our last conversation, I've been thinking more about how my [specific skill or experience] could contribute to [specific project or goal at the company].
I'm very excited about the opportunity to be part of [Company Name] and look forward to potentially working together. If there are any updates regarding my application or additional information needed from my side, please let me know.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to interview with your team.
Best,
[Your Name]
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
I'm writing to follow up on the [Job Title] position. Since our last conversation, I've been thinking more about how my [specific skill or experience] could contribute to [specific project or goal at the company].
I'm very excited about the opportunity to be part of [Company Name] and look forward to potentially working together. If there are any updates regarding my application or additional information needed from my side, please let me know.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to interview with your team.
Best,
[Your Name]
When sending a follow-up email, it's important to be courteous and professional, keeping your message concise and to the point. Remember to send these emails at appropriate intervals, typically a week or two after the interview or after any time frame the interviewer may have specified for a decision.
Bonus Tips For Writing Your Thank You Note
After a job interview, sending a thank you email is more than polite--it's strategic. Crafting this message to stand out can tip the balance in your favor.
Tip #8: Express Authentic Gratitude
Your thank you note should breathe life into your candidacy. It starts with genuine appreciation for the interviewer's time--key ingredients that help form an authentic connection beyond your resume builder or cover letter.
But don't stop there; make sure to highlight what specifically about the conversation or company culture resonated with you. Maintaining professionalism doesn't mean sacrificing personality. A memorable thank you can blend courtesy with character, allowing hiring managers to see both your qualifications and who you are as a person.
Following Up When There's No Response: What Next?
You aced the interview and sent a thoughtful follow-up email, but now there’s silence. It happens more often than you'd think in today's job market. Before hitting send on another message or picking up the phone, let's talk strategy.
First things first, timing is everything. While it might be tempting to reach out immediately after your initial follow-up has gone unanswered, patience can pay off. A second follow-up email after an interview with no response should typically wait for about one to two weeks—enough time to account for busy schedules without falling off the radar completely.
Tip #9: Choose Your Communication Method Wisely
Email remains king in professional correspondence due to its convenience and documentation trail; however, if emails go unnoticed, a polite phone call can show initiative without being intrusive. Weighing between following up on a job application with either a phone call or an email depends largely on company culture and your prior interactions with potential employers.
Tip #10: Gauge the Right Moment for Another Follow-Up
A savvy job seeker knows that each additional communication must offer value beyond mere check-ins. You can reignite the conversation with potential employers by offering insights on how your skills align with their goals or sharing recent work experiences that relate to discussions from interviews. This will remind them why you are still their top choice candidate, without sounding like just another applicant waiting for feedback.
A Final Word
For every job opening there's literally 100's of applicants. From that number there's dozens of job interviews. Anything you can do to stand out (including sending a follow up email after an interview) among all the competition is worth doing.
And if you're on the hunt for a job, do yourself a favor and download the free Magical Chrome extension. This handy tool can help you apply to jobs 10x faster by creating templates for your cover letter, and auto-filling your personal details into those dump application form fields.
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