Following Up After Interviews – A Key to Success
The journey to landing your dream job doesn’t end when you walk out of the interview room. In fact, what you do after the interview can be just as crucial as the interview itself. Show the hiring team you’re serious about the job by following up – it’s a chance to reiterate your passion and credentials.
At the heart of this follow-up process is the thank-you note. A heartfelt thank-you can work wonders in leaving a positive impression – it’s a courteous gesture that showcases your respect for the interviewer’s schedule and consideration. Don’t let the conversation stop at the interview. A well-crafted thank-you note is a chance to reignite the spark, letting the hiring team know you’re genuinely excited about the opportunity. And if there were any key qualifications you didn’t get to discuss, now’s your time to shine.
Your thank-you note should be personalised and sent promptly, ideally within 24 hours of the interview. Kick things off by acknowledging the interviewer’s valuable time and let them know you’re grateful they could fit you in. Then, briefly restate your interest in the position and why you believe you’re a strong candidate. Take this chance to reignite the conversation with your unbridled energy for the role and make it crystal clear why you’re the strongest contender.
Identify your standout qualifications and let them shine. Mention specific examples of how your skills and experience align with the job requirements. If you realised after the interview that you didn’t fully express a key qualification, this is your chance to bring it up.
To make your note stand out, refer to a specific discussion point from the interview. Your conversation was no casual chat – you were clearly absorbing every word, and that much is evident in your response. It could be a particular project you discussed or a company initiative that caught your interest.
Finish strong by conveying your genuine excitement about the opportunity and your anticipation of their response. Your credibility receives a major shot in the arm, while your eagerness becomes palpable.
While email is the most common and efficient way to send your thank-you note, don’t overlook the impact of a handwritten note if you have the interviewer’s mailing address. In our digital age, a physical note can make a memorable impression.
As you craft your follow-up, remember to be specific. Generic thank-you notes can come across as insincere or rushed. Take the time to tailor your message to the specific interview and role. And of course, proofread carefully. Cleanliness counts, especially when it comes to your notes – a mistake-free document showcases your meticulous side.
If you haven’t heard back within a week of your interview (or within the timeframe they specified), it’s appropriate to send a polite follow-up email. This shows your continued interest and can sometimes prompt a response if your previous message was overlooked.
The real purpose of following up goes beyond getting the job – it’s about finding the right fit and making a real connection. Building bridges between people is what matters most – it’s about creating a network of allies who appreciate you, win or lose. Think of a follow-up as a chance to show your enthusiasm for the role, and to leave a lasting impression on the people who matter most – the ones making the hiring decisions.
JGA Recruitment Group: Connecting Talent. Driving Success.
Looking for the next step in your career? Or looking for the best Payroll & HR talent to join your organisation? Contact our team on:
Telephone: 01727800377
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://jgarecruitment.com
Image: © D3Damon via Canva.com
