How To Write A Follow Up Interview Email: Your Complete Guide to Landing the Job
So, you’ve aced the interview. Congratulations! You’ve put in the hard work, showcased your skills, and made a great impression. Now what? The follow-up email is your next critical step in the job application process. It’s your chance to reiterate your interest, reinforce key points, and demonstrate professionalism. Getting this right can significantly increase your chances of landing the role. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about crafting a compelling follow-up interview email that will get you noticed.
The Importance of Following Up After an Interview
Why is a follow-up email so crucial? Think of it as a continuation of the interview process. It shows that you are proactive, engaged, and genuinely interested in the position. It gives you the opportunity to:
- Reiterate your enthusiasm: Remind the interviewer why you’re a great fit.
- Address any unanswered questions: Clarify anything you may have missed during the interview.
- Reinforce your key skills: Highlight the skills and experiences that align with the job requirements.
- Thank the interviewer: Show your appreciation for their time and consideration.
- Stay top-of-mind: Keep your name fresh in the interviewer’s memory.
Failing to follow up can be interpreted as a lack of interest or professionalism, which can be detrimental to your candidacy.
Crafting the Perfect Follow-Up Email: Key Elements
Your follow-up email should be concise, well-written, and tailored to the specific interview. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components:
Subject Line: Make it Clear and Concise
The subject line is the first thing the hiring manager will see. Make it clear, professional, and easily identifiable. Some examples include:
- “Following Up: [Your Name] - [Job Title]”
- “Thank You - [Your Name] - [Job Title] Interview”
- “Following Up on the [Job Title] Position - [Your Name]”
Avoid generic subject lines that might get lost in a busy inbox.
The Opening: Express Gratitude and Reiterate Interest
Start by thanking the interviewer for their time. This shows respect and appreciation. Briefly mention the date of the interview and the position you discussed. Then, immediately reiterate your strong interest in the role.
Example: “Dear [Interviewer Name], Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me yesterday about the [Job Title] position. I truly enjoyed learning more about the role and the team at [Company Name], and I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity.”
Reinforcing Your Value: Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience
This is your chance to connect your skills and experience directly to the job requirements. Refer back to specific topics discussed during the interview and emphasize how your qualifications align with the company’s needs.
Example: “During our conversation, we discussed [specific project/responsibility]. I was particularly excited to hear about [company’s goal/challenge], and my experience in [relevant skill] aligns perfectly with this, as demonstrated by [specific achievement/example].”
Address Unanswered Questions (If Necessary)
If there were any questions you didn’t fully answer or if you thought of something else relevant after the interview, this is the place to address them. Keep it concise and relevant.
Example: “I wanted to add that, regarding your question about [topic], I also have experience in [related skill], which I believe would be beneficial in this role.”
The Closing: Express Continued Interest and Next Steps
Reiterate your interest in the position and express your eagerness to hear back from them. End with a clear call to action.
Example: “I am very excited about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to [company’s goal]. Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely, [Your Name]”
Formatting and Tone: Professionalism is Key
Maintain a professional tone throughout the email. Proofread meticulously for any grammatical errors or typos. Use a clear and easy-to-read font. Keep the email concise and to the point – aim for no more than a few short paragraphs. Avoid overly casual language or jargon.
Timing is Everything: When to Send Your Follow-Up
The general rule of thumb is to send your follow-up email within 24-48 hours of the interview. This demonstrates your promptness and enthusiasm. Avoid sending it immediately after the interview, as it might seem overly eager. If the interviewer provides a specific timeframe for a decision, adjust your timing accordingly. If you haven’t heard back within a week of your follow-up, it’s acceptable to send a brief, polite email reiterating your interest.
Tailoring Your Email: Personalization Matters
Don’t send a generic template email. Customize each follow-up email to the specific interview and the specific role. Research the company and the interviewer beforehand. Mention something specific you discussed during the interview to show you were engaged and attentive.
What to Avoid in Your Follow-Up Email
Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Repeating the entire interview: Don’t simply rehash everything you discussed.
- Being overly aggressive or demanding: Avoid phrases like “I expect to hear back from you by…”
- Focusing solely on yourself: While you should highlight your skills, also show how you can contribute to the company’s goals.
- Sending the email to the wrong person: Double-check the email address!
- Including attachments unless specifically requested: Keep it simple.
- Using informal language or slang: Maintain a professional tone.
Dealing with Different Interview Scenarios
The follow-up strategy might vary slightly depending on the interview type or the information provided by the interviewer:
Second Interviews and Beyond
For subsequent interviews, build upon your previous follow-up emails. Thank the interviewer(s) for their time and reiterate your continued interest. You might also reiterate your enthusiasm and highlight your ongoing commitment to the opportunity.
Interviews with Multiple Interviewers
If you interviewed with multiple people, consider sending individual emails, or a single email to all interviewers with a clear statement of appreciation for each person’s time. If you send one email, make sure to address each interviewer by name.
Remote Interviews
The same principles apply to remote interviews. Ensure your email is professional and well-formatted.
Beyond the Email: Additional Considerations
While a well-crafted email is crucial, remember that other factors can contribute to your success:
- Professional online presence: Ensure your LinkedIn profile and other online profiles are up-to-date and reflect your qualifications.
- Positive attitude: Maintain a positive and enthusiastic attitude throughout the entire process.
- Networking: If you have connections within the company, leverage them appropriately.
FAQs: Addressing Common Concerns
Here are some frequently asked questions about follow-up interview emails:
What if I don’t know the interviewer’s email address?
You can usually find the email address on the company website, LinkedIn, or by asking the recruiter. If you’re still unsure, send the email to the general HR email address, or the recruiter.
How long should my follow-up email be?
Keep it concise. Aim for no more than three to five short paragraphs.
Should I include a resume or cover letter?
Generally, no. The hiring manager already has these documents. However, if you’ve gained new qualifications or experiences since you submitted your application, you might briefly mention them. Avoid sending attachments unless specifically requested.
What if I haven’t heard back after a week?
It’s perfectly acceptable to send a polite follow-up email reiterating your interest and asking for an update on the hiring process.
What if I have a strong feeling I didn’t get the job?
Even if you feel the interview didn’t go well, it’s still important to send a thank-you email. This maintains your professional reputation and could open doors for future opportunities.
Conclusion: Securing Your Next Opportunity
Writing a compelling follow-up interview email is a crucial step in the job search process. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can craft an email that demonstrates your enthusiasm, reinforces your value, and ultimately increases your chances of landing the job. Remember to be professional, concise, and tailored to each specific interview. A well-written follow-up email is a powerful tool that can help you stand out from the competition and secure your next career opportunity. Good luck!