Even if you performed perfectly in your job interview, you still have one more item to navigate, and it’s all too easy to mess it up. Now you have to wade into the tricky waters of following up. Follow up too little, and you may come across as disinterested or even rude. But follow up too much, and you might seem impatient or desperate. Here’s when you should follow up with a potential employer.
Right Away
It’s never wrong to send an email thanking the interviewer. It shows enthusiasm and can help you stand out from the crowd. It’s essential to move quickly on this one, sending it in the afternoon following a morning interview or in the morning following an afternoon interview. Take the opportunity to show that you’re a great fit, perhaps by mentioning what intrigued you during the interview and how your skills apply.
After You Should Have Heard
During your interview, ask when you can expect to hear something. A few days after that date, send a quick email expressing that you’re still interested in the position and hope to hear from them soon.
When Requested
Sometimes an interviewer or hiring manager will ask you to follow up on a certain date. Maybe they’re swamped with conflicting priorities or simply absentminded. Regardless of the reason, if you’re told to follow up, you should always do so.
After Being Rejected
No one wants to get the dreaded “thank you, but no thank you” email, but it’s a part of life for all job seekers. Though it may be the last thing you feel like doing at the time, consider sending a polite email thanking them for their consideration and asking them to keep you in mind for future roles. Things change all the time, and you never know when a hiring manager who rejected you six months ago might suddenly have a position that’s perfect for you. Or your thoughtful email might encourage him to call a friend who has an open position that is a better fit. Always strive to build bridges rather than burn them.
Try to resist the urge to reach out at times other than those listed above. Hiring managers are busy people, and if they start to feel pestered, a possible yes could turn into a hard no. Instead, focus your efforts on applying for other positions. If your dream job pans out, you can be happily surprised.
Ready for a New Job?
If you’re ready for a new job, Custom Staffing can help. Take a look at our available positions, and call us today for more information.
