Just finished a job interview and wondering what to do next? Don’t just sit around waiting for an email to pop into your inbox. Following up after a job interview is a small but powerful move that can leave a lasting impression on your interviewer—and maybe even tip the scales in your favor.
Send a Thank-You Within 24 Hours
Sending a thank-you email within 24 hours shows you're professional, thoughtful, and genuinely interested in the role. It doesn’t have to be long or overly formal—just a quick note to say thank you and reiterate your enthusiasm.
Example: “Thank you for the great conversation today. I’m excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to [specific point discussed in the interview].”
Simple, polite, and effective.
When (and How) to Follow Up Again
If you haven’t heard back after about 5 to 7 business days, it’s perfectly okay to send a gentle follow-up. Keep it respectful. No need to chase or sound frustrated.
You could say: “Hi [Name], I wanted to check in on the status of the [Job Title] position. I’m still very interested and would appreciate any updates when convenient.”
Don’t Overdo It
The key here is balance. One thank-you and one follow-up are usually enough. Sending multiple emails or following up too soon can make you look impatient or pushy - definitely not the vibe you want to give off.
What to Say (in a Follow-Up)
When it comes to following up, your message should be clear, polite, and to the point. Start by thanking the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to learn more about the role. Then, briefly mention something specific from the conversation—maybe a project they talked about, a value the company stands for, or a challenge they’re tackling. This shows you were engaged and genuinely interested. After that, express your continued enthusiasm for the position and your desire to contribute to the team. You can end by offering to provide any additional information and letting them know you look forward to hearing back. Keep it short—no need to recap your entire resume again. Think of it as a friendly nudge, not a second pitch. A well-written follow-up can reinforce your interest and professionalism without overdoing it.
Personalization Is Powerful
Don’t forget to personalize your messages. Mention something specific you talked about in the interview—whether it was a project, company goal, or even a shared interest. It shows you were paying attention and helps build rapport.
Final Thought: Send It and Breathe
In short, following up after an interview isn’t about being annoying—it’s about being thoughtful. It reinforces your interest, keeps the door open for communication, and reminds the hiring manager that you’re still in the game.
So hit send, then relax. You've done your part. Now let the process play out—and start prepping for your next opportunity, just in case.