Congratulations! You’ve just completed an interview, and now it’s time to take the next crucial step—sending a follow-up email. This simple act can significantly influence the hiring manager's perception of you, demonstrating your professionalism, enthusiasm, and attention to detail. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to craft an effective follow-up email after an interview, including when to send it, essential components, tips for success, and sample templates. Let’s dive in!
When to Send a Follow-Up Email After an Interview
Timing is everything when it comes to sending a follow-up email. Ideally, you should send your email within 24 to 48 hours after your interview. This timeframe allows you to express gratitude while your meeting is still fresh in the interviewer’s mind. Also, ensure you adhere to any specific guidelines mentioned by the employer during the interview regarding follow-up communication.
Follow-Up After Interview Email Format
Crafting a follow-up email involves a specific format that helps you convey your message clearly and professionally. Here’s how you can structure your email:
Follow-Up Email After Interview Subject Line
The subject line of your email is your first impression—make it count. Here are three effective options:
Use “Re:”
If you had any email exchanges prior to the interview, using "Re:" helps maintain the thread and context. For example:
- Subject: Re: [Job Title] Interview
Use “Follow-up:”
This subject line indicates the purpose of your email directly and is easy to understand. For instance:
- Subject: Follow-up on [Job Title] Interview
If There’s No Previous Email to Reply To
If this is your first email communication, opt for something straightforward:
- Subject: Thank You for the [Job Title] Interview Opportunity
Body of a Post-Interview Follow-Up Email
The body of your email should include the following elements:
1. Greeting: Begin with a professional salutation, addressing the interviewer by name (e.g., "Dear [Interviewer's Name],").
2. Thank You: Start with a sincere expression of gratitude for the opportunity to interview.
Example: “Thank you for the opportunity to discuss my application for the [Job Title] position. I enjoyed our conversation and learning more about [Company Name].”
3. Highlight Key Points: Mention specific topics discussed during the interview that reinforce your qualifications or connection to the company.
Example: “I was particularly excited to hear about [specific project or value] and how my experience with [related skill or experience] aligns with your goals.”
4. Reiterate Interest: Clearly state your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
Example: “I am very enthusiastic about the possibility of joining your team and contributing to [specific goal or project].”
5. Closing Statement: Thank them again and indicate that you look forward to their response.
Example: “Thank you once again for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”
How to End an After-Interview Follow-Up Email
Conclude your email with a polite closing and your name. You can also include your contact information if it’s not included in your email signature.
Example:
“Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your LinkedIn Profile (if applicable)]”
Tips for Following Up After an Interview
1. Be Concise:Keep your email brief and to the point. Employers appreciate a quick read.
2. Personalize It: Tailor your message to reflect the specific conversation you had. This shows attentiveness and genuine interest.
3. Proofread: Spelling and grammatical errors can undermine your professionalism. Double-check your email before sending it.
4. Avoid Being Pushy: While you should express eagerness, refrain from demanding updates or deadlines.
5. Use a Professional Email Address: Ensure your email address is simple and professional.
Why Should I Send a Follow-Up Email After an Interview?
Sending a follow-up email serves multiple purposes:
Demonstrates Professionalism: It showcases your commitment and respect for the hiring process.
Reinforces Your Interest: It helps to remind the interviewer of your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
Opportunity for Additional Information: This email gives you a chance to reiterate qualifications or address anything you may have overlooked during the interview.
Follow-Up Email After Interview Examples and Template
First Follow-Up Email After Interview Sample
Subject: Thank You for the [Job Title] Interview Dear [Interviewer's Name], Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I enjoyed our conversation and learning more about the exciting projects your team is working on. I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or role], and I believe my skills in [specific skills] would be a great fit. Thank you once again for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best regards, [Your Name] |
Second Follow-Up Email After Interview Sample
Subject: Follow-up on [Job Title] Interview Dear [Interviewer's Name], I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up regarding my interview for the [Job Title] position on [date]. I remain very enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to [specific project or goal]. If there are any updates regarding my application status, I would greatly appreciate any information you could share. Thank you for your time. Best, [Your Name] |
Interview Follow-Up Email After 2 Weeks Sample
Subject: Checking In on [Job Title] Interview Dear [Interviewer's Name], I hope all is well. I wanted to check in regarding my interview for the [Job Title] position on [date]. I am still very interested in the opportunity and would love to know if there are any updates. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you. Best regards, [Your Name] |
Email Follow-Up After Second Interview Sample
Subject: Thank You for the Second Interview Dear [Interviewer's Name], Thank you for the opportunity to meet again for the [Job Title] position. I appreciate the insights you shared about [specific topic], and I am even more excited about the prospect of working with your team. If you need any further information from my side, please feel free to reach out. Warm regards, [Your Name] |
Short and Sweet Follow-Up Email After Interview Sample
Subject: Thank You Dear [Interviewer's Name], Thank you for the insightful conversation during my interview for the [Job Title]. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to [Company Name]. Looking forward to your response. Best, [Your Name] |
Follow-Up Thank You Email After Interview Sample
Subject: Thank You for the Interview Opportunity Dear [Interviewer's Name], I wanted to extend my gratitude for the interview opportunity for the [Job Title] position. I enjoyed learning about [specific company value/project]. Thank you once again for your time. Best regards, [Your Name] |
Follow-Up Email After Phone Interview Sample
Subject: Thank You for the Phone Interview Dear [Interviewer's Name], Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about the [Job Title] position over the phone. I appreciate the insights you shared about [specific topic discussed]. I look forward to the possibility of working together. Best, [Your Name] |
Conclusion
In conclusion, sending a follow-up email after an interview is a vital step that can set you apart in the job application process. By expressing gratitude, reinforcing your interest, and maintaining professionalism, you enhance your chances of making a lasting impression. Use the templates and tips provided in this post to craft your follow-up email, showing the hiring manager that you are serious about the opportunity. Now, it’s time to put these strategies to work—good luck!
