Mastering the Art of the Follow Up Email After Interview

So, you’ve nailed the interview. The handshake was firm, the conversation flowed, and you left feeling confident. But what happens next? The waiting game can be agonizing, and that’s where a well-crafted follow up email after interview can make all the difference. It’s not just good manners; it’s a strategic move that can solidify your candidacy and tip the scales in your favor. But how do you write one that stands out from the crowd? Let’s break it down.

Why is a Post-Interview Email Important?

Think of your follow up emails after interviews as the final piece of your application puzzle. They provide an opportunity to −

  • Reinforce your interest − Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the company. This shows you’re genuinely keen and not just sending out applications randomly.
  • Remind them of your qualifications − Briefly recap key skills and experiences discussed during the interview that align with the job requirements.
  • Address any lingering questions − Did you forget to mention something crucial? Did you realize you could have answered a question better? This is your chance to clarify.
  • Demonstrate professionalism − A prompt, well-written email showcases your attention to detail and communication skills – qualities every employer values.
  • Leave a lasting positive impression − In a competitive job market, anything that makes you memorable is a plus.

Essentially, it’s a chance to stay top-of-mind with the hiring manager.

What to Include in Your Email

Crafting an effective follow up email after interview is all about striking the right balance. Here’s a breakdown of the key components −

  • Subject Line − Keep it clear and concise. Something like “Thank You – [Your Name] – [Job Title]” works perfectly.
  • Personalized Greeting − Address the hiring manager by name, if you know it. Avoid generic greetings like “To Whom It May Concern.”
  • Express Gratitude − Start by thanking the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to learn more about the role and the company.
  • Reinforce Your Interest and Qualifications − Briefly mention specific aspects of the interview that resonated with you and connect them to your skills and experience. For example, “I was particularly interested in our conversation about [specific project/topic]. My experience in [relevant skill] would be directly applicable to that challenge.”
  • Address Any Concerns (Optional) − If there’s anything you feel you didn’t articulate clearly during the interview, or if you want to provide additional information, do so concisely.
  • Reiterate Your Enthusiasm − End by reiterating your strong interest in the position and your belief that you would be a valuable asset to the team.
  • Polite Closing − Use a professional closing like “Sincerely” or “Best Regards,” followed by your name and contact information.

Timing is Everything

When should you send your follow-up email? Ideally, within 24 hours of the interview. This demonstrates your promptness and keeps you fresh in the interviewer’s mind. Sending it later than that risks appearing uninterested or disorganized.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes in your follow-up email. Here are a few pitfalls to steer clear of −

  • Generic Templates − Avoid using generic templates that sound impersonal and insincere. Tailor each email to the specific interview and company.
  • Typos and Grammatical Errors − Proofread your email carefully before sending it. Errors can make you appear careless and unprofessional. Use a grammar checker!
  • Demanding an Update − While it’s perfectly acceptable to inquire about the timeline for a decision, avoid sounding demanding or impatient.
  • Repetitive Information − Don’t simply regurgitate your resume. Focus on highlighting the key points that are most relevant to the role and the company.
  • Overly Casual Tone − Maintain a professional tone throughout your email. Avoid slang or overly familiar language.

Elevate Your Email

Want to take your follow-up email to the next level? Consider these advanced techniques −

  • Share a Relevant Article or Resource − If you discussed a specific topic during the interview, consider sharing a relevant article or resource that demonstrates your knowledge and interest.
  • Offer to Provide Additional Information − If you feel there’s anything else the hiring manager might need to make a decision, offer to provide it.
  • Connect on LinkedIn − After sending your follow-up email, consider connecting with the interviewer on LinkedIn. This can help you stay connected and build your professional network.

A well-crafted follow up email after interview isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a crucial component of your job search strategy. By following these tips, you can significantly increase your chances of landing your dream job. Good luck!