What to Say When Following Up After a Job Interview: A Polite and Professional Approach

After a job interview, it's wise to follow up to show your continued interest in the position. However, waiting for a job offer or any form of feedback can be stressful. Here's a guide on how to draft a polite and professional follow-up message that will keep you top-of-mind without sounding impatient.

Understand the Importance of Following Up

Many candidates make the mistake of not following up after an interview, thinking that if the employer wants them, they will reach out. However, staying proactive and following up is a crucial step in the job application process. It keeps your application fresh in the employer's mind and retains your interest in the position.

A polite and professional follow-up message sets the right tone and shows that you are committed to the job. Employers appreciate candidates who show initiative and enthusiasm. Here are some key points to consider when writing your follow-up message:

Strategies for Follow-Up

Here's a well-crafted follow-up message that strikes the right balance:

Subject: Follow-up on [Job Title] Position Interview (Date)Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],I wanted to follow up on the [Job Title] position I discussed with [Company Name] on [Date of Interview]. I am still very interested in this opportunity and would greatly appreciate an update on the status of the hiring process.If there is any additional information or documentation that you need from me, please let me know. I am eager to provide the necessary details to ensure I meet your  you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you  regards,[Your Name]

Goals of a Follow-Up Message

The primary goals of a follow-up message are:

To politely inquire about the status of your application without making demands. To reaffirm your continued interest in the role. To offer to provide any additional information the interviewer may need. To express appreciation for their time and consideration.

Ensure that your tone remains respectful and professional. Avoid sounding frustrated or impatient as this could negatively impact your chances of success.

Timing and Tone

If you haven’t received any response within two weeks of the interview, it's advisable to follow up with a polite email. Here's an example of a more concise follow-up message:

Subject: Update on [Name of Position] Interview (Interview Date)Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],I hope this email finds you well. As I mentioned in our interview, I recently had the opportunity to discuss the [Name of Position] role with [Company Name] on [Interview Date]. I am genuinely interested in this opportunity and wanted to kindly check in to see if there has been any progress or if there is anything additional I can provide to assist in the hiring  you for your time and consideration.Warm regards,[Your Name]

Remember, following up is a sign of professionalism and ultimately increases your chances of being successful in the application process. If you receive no response, it may be an indication that you were not selected for the position. However, it's also an opportunity to explore other job options and continue networking to find the right fit.

Key Takeaways

Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

Proactive and polite follow-ups can enhance your application process. Keep your tone professional and avoid sounding desperate. Stay committed and continue applying to other opportunities.

With the right approach and persistence, you can increase your chances of success in the job market. Good luck!