Securing the Bag - After the Interview

Your interview went well and now you really want to land the job - so what do you do next? Chill out – your favorite (professional) matchmaker is about to clue you in. Interviewing is like dating – you want to show you’re interested but desperation is not attractive. Here’s how to handle the follow-up process after an interview.

Following up with anyone who interviewed you is crucial.

It shows your interest, your intent and your professionalism. Depending on the job there could be a number of candidates applying for the same position and you definitely don’t want to get lost in the shuffle. However - how and when you do it can play to your advantage.

Within 24 hours of your interview send a thank you note to all of the interviewers. In the crazy times we’re living in you can send a hand-written thank you note but make sure you have the correct address. What good is a perfectly written note if you mail it to the office, but the decision maker is working from home? (NOTE: don’t be a creeper – do NOT send anything to a hiring manager’s home. How did you even get their address anyways?) Just send an email (see my previous article on more details about this)

You’ll want to be cool, calm and collected – like you would after a date. You want to reiterate your interest in the position and joining the team without sounding like your world will crumble if they don’t extend you a marriage proposal…I mean job 😊

Here’s an example:

Hi [Name],

Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today! I am excited about the opportunity to join your team as a [Name of Role] for [Company Name]. To reiterate what we discussed during the interview, I believe I could immediately make an impact by

1. List one of your rockstar qualities

2. List one way that you’ve successfully delivered in the past

3. List one example of how your recent experience could help the team

Please keep me updated on the status of the hiring process. I look forward to hearing back from you soon!

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

The hiring process can sometimes be long and drawn out - employers have a lot on their plates! Typically, they will give you an estimate of when you should hear back about next steps. If this date has passed and it has been radio silent, it is perfectly professional to check in. Again, send a brief email reiterating your interest and asking if there is anything they need from you to assist in their decision making process. It is perfectly acceptable to also follow up with a phone call.

If your status changes before the company has made a hiring decision, be professional and let them know. If you receive or accept another job offer let them know – this could light a fire under their feet and get a decision made faster. It could also change nothing and that allows you to make the best decision for yourself and your career.