It isn’t enough to fire out 10 applications and attend 1 or 2 interviews; in order to secure a new role you need to go that extra mile.
Following up after an interview is often overlooked, but is something that if done correctly can increase your chances of landing a role.
During the interview
Start by collecting the relevant information that you will need in order to follow up successfully.
At the end of the interview make sure you ask for your interviewer’s business card or at least a direct dial/e-mail address that you can contact them on. Also, make sure that you ask when you can expect to hear back from them.
After the interview
It is easy to forget what happened in the interview, especially if it is one of many. After the interview it is a good idea to make a note of everything that happened i.e.
The follow up e-mail
Using your notes, start by sending a follow up e-mail. The morning after is usually a good idea. Send the e-mail just before the interviewers working hours are due to begin. Likelihood is they will be at their desk checking their e-mails and yours will be fresh in their inbox.
In the e-mail, firstly thank the interviewer for their time. Then touch on a specific point that you discussed in the interview – whether that is the company’s growth plans or a specific part of the role that you took particular interest in, it doesn’t really matter, this is just to show that you were listening and to demonstrate your keen interest.
Then you need to remind the interviewer why they gave you an interview in the first place. You need to subtly sell yourself. Tell them how excited you are about the opportunity and mention how your skills set and experience would be a perfect fit, but remember to keep it brief! This is also the perfect opportunity for you to touch on things that you didn’t in the interview – just make sure they are relevant to the role/company. Finally make it clear that you are more than happy for them to contact you in case they need any more documentation etc. and make sure you leave a mobile number.
The aim of this follow up e-mail is to reinforce what a good fit you are for the role. The idea is to demonstrate how you are the solution to the company’s needs. If you can do this successfully, the job could be yours!
The phone call follow up
If you hear nothing back after the date in which the interviewer said they would be in touch, I would recommend making a phone call, or at least sending another e-mail.
Once again, express your interest and enthusiasm towards the role, however, be understanding to the fact that they are making a big decision. Hiring a new employee can be a lengthy process and they may have not reached a decision just yet. If this is the case, ask if they have an updated timeframe.
Try to remember that you are not hassling! Time has been invested on both parts so you are more than entitled to follow up. The interviewer will also understand that you need to know where you stand and that you might not be in a position to wait due to other opportunities and offers.
Remember that the interview isn’t over until a final decision is made. The interviewer will continue to review CVs and interview notes.
Following up can increase your chances of success, simply because you are continuing to place your name in the mind of the interviewer and remind them why you would be great for the role and a great fit for their company.
