This is Why Following Up After an Interview Can Help You Land the Job

The job market is getting more competitive everyday. The average time to hire a new employer was 39 days in 2016, down from 43 days in 2015; with these days reducing every year it is only becoming more important in the hiring process to follow up on your application to help you land the job.

Job opportunities are always there in your reach; you just have to take the extra leap to grab them. On average, job seekers spend 11 hours per week looking for a new job. This little trick on landing the potential offer will let your prospective employer know you’re a professional who is committed to your job search, which will further be demonstrated if you receive the job. At the conclusion of your interview, you want the hiring manager to remember you for your manners and presentation, for the important business questions you asked, and when you follow up on the job application, they’ll remember you were a great fit for the position.

So, when should you follow up on your application?

It is crucial to note that there is an appropriate amount of contacting to be done, you do not want to check-in too frequently as you may come across as pushy or obtrusive. You should always ask the hiring manager how and when you would hear back from them at the end of your interview. This will give you closure and a time frame of when it is appropriate to send a message of gratitude and one to follow up. Consider sending a thank you note between 24 and 48 hours after your interview, as an act of professionalism and acknowledgement of the time taken to interview you. If you don’t hear anything by the disclosed time frame, a two-week period is then the right time to send a follow-up email or note.

Whether or not you believe there will be a positive result, it is always polite as a job seeker to demonstrate you were grateful for the opportunity of the interview and to reaffirm your interest in the position. This final stage of the interview process is crucial and no matter your method of contacting the company, there is a right way to do so. There are many ways in following up the hiring process; these methods can include a phone call, via LinkedIn, email, or even social media.

To help you land the job there are key elements to include for a simple follow-up note, thank you note that demonstrates your professionalism and interest in the position. Ensure that the company name and the job title are included; this informs the hiring manager that you are aware of and seek the specific position in the company. Always check that there are no typos and that your message is formatted in a professional manner.

The Thank You Email

Below is a sample script of an appropriate way to check in during the hiring process and can provide you with peace of mind. It is important that the thank you letter allows you to strut your stuff and remind them of your interest in working for the company you believe you would be a good fit for.

The Follow Up Email

Remember that the goal in following up is not to hassle the potential employer, but to show interest and respect. If you have not been contacted yet or have been given a good offer at a different company, below is an example of a follow-up email that can be altered and used as a way to help you land the job.

It is not always guaranteed that following up can help you land the job, however, it is the best thing to do if you want to increase your chances of getting the position. When you send a thank you note you are acknowledging your appreciation of the opportunity, and demonstrating your keen interest as a professional to the hiring manager when you check in a week or two later.

Don’t be afraid to follow up on a job search, as it can only improve your chances if done the right way!