How to Follow-Up After Applying or Interviewing for a Job
It can be hard to have patience after you have applied or been interviewed for a job. Here are some guidelines for the follow-up process that can help you know when and how to get in touch with a potential employer.
When to Follow Up
If you have sent in a job application and have not received a response or have a received a note from the company that you will be informed when there is an update, you can send a follow-up note within five to seven business days. If someone at the company has referred you to the hiring manager, wait for five to seven business days and then check with the person you are networking with instead of contacting the hiring manager directly.
On the other hand, a person who has participated in a phone screening or had an in-person interview can follow up on the interview either the same day or the next day.
How to Follow Up
Any follow up note for written job applications should be extremely polite. Acknowledge the other party is busy before mentioning that you are following up on your application for a particular job. Emphasize once again your interest in working with the company and ask if there is any further information you could provide that would be of help.
A person who has attended a phone or live interview should start by thanking the interviewer for his or her time before asking for further information. Mention the specific reasons why you are eager to work with the company and let the interviewer know you are looking forward to hearing from him or her in the near future.
Knowing how to craft a professional, polite follow-up note is an important aspect of the job application process. Be well mannered and patient yet persistent as you reach out to a potential boss to let him or her know that you are available, qualified and eager to work with the company.