How to Write an Interview Follow Up Email
You've finished your interview, thanked your interviewer, and said goodbye to them. You may feel that the hardest part is over, but now what? The next step that many candidates take is to send an interview follow up email.
Recruiters are busy people which means that this email will need to be sent at the right time. It must also be professional to ensure that you stay at the forefront of your interviewer's mind. This article will cover why and how you should write an interview follow up email to an employer.
Why Should You Send an Interview Follow Up Email
Not interviewers will tell you to send an interview follow up email, but it is often expected. You should show your gratitude to the hiring manager for giving you the time and opportunity to interview for the position. You will most likely be one of many candidates to interview for the position, so an interview follow up email can also remind an interviewer of who you are.
The email also proves that you are invested in the position and that you care about the outcome. It shouldn't be sent immediately after the interview, however. Leave some time for the dust to settle and send an interview follow up email after two or three days, or if you haven't heard back for over a week.
Make sure your email is written in a professional tone with a clear purpose. If it comes across as unprofessional or messy, it may damage your chances of landing the job. Signal to them that you will add value to their team and that you are committed.
How to Structure Your Interview Follow Up Email
An interview follow up email can be considered as a thank you note. This thank you note shouldn't be generic, however, but instead, be personal and believable. It should be kept short and to the point to not waste an employer's time.
Let's break down an interview follow up email into the different sections that are required.
Subject Line
Your email subject line should be relevant to the interview that you had. Keep it simple so that it stands out to an employer. For example, Jane Doe - Re: Interview on Friday at 1pm.
Email Introduction
Your email introduction depends on how well you know your interviewer. If you are on a first-name basis with them, then you can begin with their first name. If you are unsure of their name or would prefer to be professional, choose to begin with 'Mr', 'Ms', etc.
Main Body of Text
The main body of your email should inform the interviewer that you are emailing to ask for a progress update. Mention the job title and the date of the interview to them. Be polite, keep it simple, and reassert that you are interested in the job.
Remember to thank them for their time for both the interview and this email. You should also let them know that any information or updates would be greatly appreciated.
Email Sign Off
End your email by asking the interviewer if they have any further questions for you or if there is anything else you can provide for them. After this, simply sign off by saying something such as 'looking forward to hearing from you' and write your full name underneath. If you want to state your thanks again, then feel free to do so!
Check it through
As with all documents in your job search, you should take the time to look over your email. Check for mistakes and make sure it reads well. Once done, send it off!
Alternatives Ways to Follow Up
Nowadays, many jobs are found using social media platforms or networking. This may mean that sending an interview follow up email may not be a good medium to contact your interviewer. If this is the case, then use the platform that you have been contacting them on before.
You could also consider giving them a phone call or contacting them via their website. Instant messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, LinkedIn Messenger, Skype, or Google Hangouts can also be used. Choose the platform that makes the most sense to you but remember to keep it professional.
