Expert Tips on Following Up on Interview Status Professionally
jillianhunt
August 25, 2023 8:34 pm
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13 min read
Searching for a job can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but following up on interview status is a critical aspect of your job hunt journey. It helps you stay informed about your application and demonstrates your interest in the position to the employer. However, it’s essential to follow up professionally and avoid coming across as pushy or desperate. In this article, we’ll provide expert tips on following up on interview status professionally and guide you on crafting an effective follow-up email or making a phone call. Let’s get started!
Understanding the Importance of Following Up
It’s essential to check in on the interview status after the interview. Following up shows the employer your interest in the role and keeps you informed about the progress of the hiring process. Whether you are waiting for the result, a job interview update, or feedback request, staying proactive and professional is key.
One significant benefit of following up is receiving interview feedback, which can help you improve for future interviews. You can request feedback on your performance during the interview, such as your strengths and areas for improvement. It’s also an opportunity to ask for the interviewer’s thoughts on your qualifications and whether they think you are a good fit.
Why Checking the Interview Status Matters
Following up after a job interview also keeps you informed about the hiring process timeline. Sometimes, an employer might take longer than expected to get back to you. A follow-up email or phone call can help you gain clarity on the timeline and when to expect a response. Additionally, checking the interview status gives you an edge over other candidates by demonstrating initiative and interest in the position.
- Requesting a job interview update shows professionalism. Employers appreciate candidates who are eager, yet polite, and respectful of their time.
- It’s a chance to express gratitude for the opportunity to interview and reiterate your interest in the role.
- Following up gives you an opportunity to address any concerns or provide additional information the interviewer might need to make a decision.
However, it’s crucial to note that the follow-up process should be handled tactfully. Bombarding the employer with multiple emails or phone calls is counterproductive and can be seen as pushy or desperate.
When to Send a Follow-Up Email or Make a Phone Call
The timing of the follow-up is crucial. You do not want to appear too eager, but you also don’t want to wait too long. A general rule of thumb is to follow up within a week after the interview.
When sending a follow-up email, ensure that the subject line is clear and concise, indicating that it’s a follow-up email. You may need to craft a different message for each scenario. If you are checking interview status, ensure your message is brief and conveys your appreciation for the opportunity and your interest in the role. However, if you are requesting feedback, provide specific questions to help the interviewer provide meaningful insights.
When making a phone call, be polite and ask if it’s a convenient time to speak. Introduce yourself, express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview, and ask if there is any update on the interview status.
Timing is Key: When to Follow Up
Knowing when to follow up on interview status is crucial to maintaining a professional image. Sending too many follow-up emails or phone calls can come across as desperate, while waiting too long can make you look disinterested.
It’s important to keep in mind that interview processes can vary depending on the company, so the timing for following up may also differ. As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended to wait at least a week after the interview before reaching out for an update. This gives the company enough time to review all candidates and make a decision.
If you were given a specific timeline during the interview, such as “we’ll get back to you within two weeks,” it’s best to wait until after that timeframe has passed before sending a follow-up email or making a phone call.
When following up, be courteous and polite in your message. Express gratitude for the opportunity to interview and reiterate your interest in the position. Ask politely if there is an update on the interview status and when you can expect to hear back. Remember to keep the message brief and to the point.
It’s also important to be respectful of the recruiter or hiring manager’s time. Avoid sending follow-up messages outside of business hours or on weekends. Additionally, if the company has a “no response means not selected” policy, it’s best to move on and focus on other opportunities instead of continuously following up.
Crafting an Effective Follow-Up Email
After a job interview, it is essential to follow up with a professional thank-you email expressing gratitude for the opportunity to interview. However, a follow-up email can also be used to inquire about the interview status and express continued interest in the position. Here are some tips on crafting an effective follow-up email:
1. Structure the email
Begin the email with a polite greeting, followed by an introduction. Express gratitude for the interview and mention something specific that was discussed during the interview. In the body of the email, inquire about the interview status and express continued interest in the position. Keep the email brief and to the point.
2. Express gratitude
Be sure to show appreciation for the interviewer’s time and the opportunity to interview for the position. This can leave a positive impression and remind the interviewer of your enthusiasm for the role.
3. Reiterate interest
Let the interviewer know that you are still interested in the position and would be happy to provide any additional information if needed. This can demonstrate your commitment to the role and your desire to move forward in the hiring process.
4. Seek interview status updates
It is important to be direct in your email and inquire about the interview status. Politely ask if there are any updates on the hiring process or if there is anything else you can provide to assist in the decision-making process.
5. Sign off professionally
Close the email with a polite thank-you and your contact information. This can demonstrate professionalism and reinforce your interest in the position.
By following these tips, you can craft an effective follow-up email that shows your continued interest in the position and professionalism.
Making a Phone Call: Dos and Don’ts
While sending a follow-up email is a common practice, sometimes it’s more effective to make a phone call. However, it’s essential to handle the call professionally and with proper etiquette.
Dos of Making a Phone Call
- Introduce yourself and remind the interviewer of the position you interviewed for
- Express gratitude for the opportunity to interview
- Politely ask for an update on the interview status
- Remain calm and composed
Don’ts of Making a Phone Call
- Call repeatedly or at inappropriate hours
- Sound overly pushy or desperate
- Ask for specific feedback on your interview performance
- Argue with the interviewer if the feedback is not what you expected
When making a phone call, it’s essential to remember that the interviewer is likely busy and has other candidates to evaluate. Therefore, keep the call brief, respectful, and professional.
Following Up Without Being Pushy
Following up on interview status is an essential part of the job hunting process. However, it is essential to maintain a professional tone and avoid coming across as pushy or desperate.
Here are some tips on how to follow up without being pushy:
- Express gratitude: Start your email or phone call by thanking the interviewer for their time. Let them know that you appreciate the opportunity to interview for the position.
- Reiterate interest: It’s essential to show your continued interest in the position. You can give a brief overview of why you are a good fit for the role and how you can contribute to the company.
- Be patient: The interviewer may have a busy schedule, so allow them a reasonable amount of time to respond. Avoid sending multiple follow-up emails or phone calls within a short period.
- Stay professional: Maintain a professional tone throughout the follow-up process. Avoid using slang, abbreviations, or inappropriate humor.
- Offer to provide more information: If the interviewer has any questions or concerns, offer to provide more information or clarification.
By following these tips, you can show your continued interest in the position and stand out as a professional candidate.
Handling No Response: When to Move On
After sending a follow-up email or making a phone call to inquire about interview status, it’s important to give the employer ample time to respond. If several days have passed without a response, it may be appropriate to send a brief and polite check-in email. However, if there is still no reply, it may be time to move on and focus on other job opportunities.
It’s essential to keep in mind that employers have busy schedules and may not always have time to respond to every email or phone call. While following up is important, it’s equally important to respect the employer’s time and decision-making process.
If you do not receive a response after several attempts to follow up, it’s best to move on and continue your job search. Remember, there are still plenty of opportunities out there, and rejection is a natural part of the job search journey.
Dealing with Rejection: Requesting Feedback
Receiving a rejection can be disheartening, but it’s important to remember that it’s not the end of the world. In fact, rejection can provide an opportunity for growth and learning. Requesting feedback after a rejection is one way to gain insight into how to improve for future interviews.
Requesting Feedback Professionally
When requesting feedback, it’s important to do so professionally and respectfully. Begin by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to interview for the position. Then, politely ask for feedback on how you could have improved your interview performance.
Example: “Thank you again for the opportunity to interview for the position. If possible, could you provide feedback on how I could have improved my interview performance? I would greatly appreciate any insights that could help me grow as a candidate.”
Remember to keep the tone of your message professional and appreciative. Don’t be defensive or argumentative if the feedback is not what you were hoping for.
Using Feedback for Personal and Professional Growth
When you receive feedback, take the time to review it carefully and reflect on how you can improve. Use the feedback to identify areas of weakness and develop a plan to address them. This will not only help you in future interviews but also in your personal and professional growth.
Example: “Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback on my interview performance. I appreciate your insights and will take them into consideration as I continue to grow as a candidate. In particular, I will work on improving my communication skills and providing more specific examples during future interviews.”
Remember, rejection is not a reflection of your worth as a person or a professional. Use it as an opportunity to learn, grow, and become a stronger candidate for future opportunities.
Maintaining a Positive Mindset
Job hunting can be a challenging process, and following up on interview status can add to the stress. It’s important to maintain a positive mindset throughout the follow-up process to stay motivated and focused on your career goals. Here are some tips on how to stay positive:
Practice Self-Care
Taking care of yourself is crucial during a job search. Make sure to get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat well to maintain your physical and mental health. It’s also essential to take breaks from the job search to relax, recharge, and enjoy your hobbies and interests.
Set Realistic Expectations
While it’s essential to stay proactive in your job hunt, it’s also crucial to set realistic expectations. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket and apply to multiple job opportunities to increase your chances of success. Understand that the hiring process can take time, and there may be setbacks, but keep pushing forward.
Stay Motivated
Keeping yourself motivated during the job search is essential. Set daily goals and celebrate small achievements along the way. You can also stay motivated by visualizing yourself in your dream job and working towards it every day.
Seek Support
Seeking support from friends, family, and mentors can be helpful during the job search process. Talking to someone who understands what you’re going through can help you stay positive and motivated. You can also join professional associations and networking groups to meet new people and gain new perspectives.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Following Up on Interview Status
Following up on interview status can be a daunting task, and you might have some queries about the process. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
1. Is it appropriate to follow up after an interview?
Yes, it is appropriate to follow up after an interview to inquire about the interview result or to reiterate your interest in the position. It demonstrates your enthusiasm and professionalism for the job opportunity.
2. How long should I wait before following up after an interview?
It is best to wait for one to two weeks after the interview before you follow up. However, if the interviewer has provided a specific timeline for the hiring process, follow up accordingly.
3. What is the appropriate method for following up after an interview?
The appropriate method for following up after an interview is through email or a phone call. You can send a thank-you email after the interview and inquire about the interview result or status. If you choose to make a phone call, ensure that you are calling during business hours and keep the conversation brief and professional.
4. What should I say in my follow-up email?
In your follow-up email, express gratitude for the opportunity to interview, reiterate your interest in the position, and inquire about the interview status or timeline for the hiring process. It is also recommended to add a personal touch, such as mentioning a particular topic or project that was discussed during the interview.
5. How many times can I follow up after an interview?
You can follow up with the interviewer once or twice after the interview. However, avoid sending too many follow-up emails or making too many phone calls, as it may come across as pushy or desperate. If you still haven’t received a response, it might be time to move on and focus on other job opportunities.
6. Should I request feedback after receiving a rejection?
Yes, it is appropriate to request feedback after receiving a rejection. It shows that you are committed to personal and professional growth and can help you improve your skills and performance for future interviews.
7. How can I maintain a positive mindset during the job search process?
To maintain a positive mindset, it is essential to manage your expectations, practice self-care, and stay motivated during the job search process. Focus on your accomplishments, network with peers, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
8. Is it okay to follow up on a weekend or after business hours?
No, it is not appropriate to follow up on a weekend or after business hours. It is important to respect the interviewer’s time and ensure that you are following up during business hours.
Following up on interview status is an essential part of the job search process, and it is important to do it professionally and effectively. By following these tips and guidelines, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job.
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