How to Follow up After An Interview (When You've Not Heard Back)

I can think of more than a few parts about job search that can only be defined as "torturous." In fact, where does one even begin with this list?

Perhaps you begin with the auto rejection email you get 12 minutes after applying for a job (that was, literally, posted a day ago). Or, with the scams that actually look like legitimate opportunities, but are very much not. Or, how about when you have to upload your resume, but then also copy and paste it section by section into the online application?

So many aspects of the process of looking for, applying for, interviewing for, and landing a new job could easily make this list. But the one that just may claim the #1 spot is this:

Radio silence after the interview.

There are few things more anxiety provoking than "the wait" after a job interview, especially if you really want (or need) the job. So, what can you do to alleviate that agonizing in-between?

Follow up...strategically. And here's how:

WHEN TO FOLLOW UP

? If they told you when you should hear back

It's always good to ask what the decision-making timeline is before you leave an interview. This may help you stay calm through the days (or weeks) following your interview. It'll also help you gauge when to follow up.

For example, if the interviewer told you they'll be making decisions within a week, let a full week pass. If you've still not heard on the next business day, reach out. I'll cover what to say momentarily.

? If you don't know when you should hear back

Unless you were told that the company is looking to hire someone immediately (as in, they have a dire need to move quickly), I'd give it at least a week, but no more than 2 weeks.

It may feel like an eternity, I know. But interview timelines very typically don't move as quickly as you'd like for them to. Things come up -- pressing project deadlines, more urgent jobs to fill, hiring managers on vacation, and so forth.

So give them a bit of time, but not too much time.

HOW TO FOLLOW UP

Unless you already know that the recruiter or hiring manager prefers phone over email, go with email. And keep your message positive and to-the-point.

WHAT TO SAY - FIRST MESSAGE

Subject line: <Job Title> Interview - Any updates?

Hello, <Name> -

I really enjoyed our conversation on <date>. When you have a moment, could you please update me on your timing and potential next steps in the interview process for the <title> position?

Thanks much! <Your Name>

Hopefully, this note will prompt a replay within a day or two. If it doesn't, don't let it unravel you. Again, there could be a lot going on that you don't know about -- urgent priorities elsewhere in the business, disagreement over which candidates will proceed, someone on vacation, recruiter buried in email...you get the point.

Wait a week (while still progressing with other applications and interviews) then send a second follow-up.

WHAT TO SAY - SECOND MESSAGE

Subject: Follow up - <Your Name> / <Job Title>

Hello, <Name> -

I hope you're having a terrific day. Just a quick follow up to see if you could provide an update on timing for potential next steps in the interview process for the <title> role. I'm still very interested in <company> and would love to continue the conversation.

Thank you! <Your Name>

ps - If I can provide any additional information to support the hiring team, I'll be glad to do so!

At this point, the recruiter will likely realize they're now sitting on two emails from you and, even if they don't have much of an answer for you yet, they'll probably send a quick update.

But if they don't? I'd give it one more week then send what I call the Hail Mary email. This is your last-ditch attempt to get a response before you put this opportunity out of your mind and move on.

WHAT TO SAY - FINAL MESSAGE

Subject: Final follow-up

Hello, <Name> -

A quick, final follow up with you regarding my <date> interview for the <job title> position. My guess is that you're moving forward with another candidate. If this is the case, I wish you all the best with your new hire.

If there is still potential to continue in the process, please let me know at your earliest convenience. Any which way, thank you very much for your consideration. I really enjoyed meeting you!

Best, <Your Name>

And that's it. If they're interested, you can bet that you'll get a quick reply once they realize you're more or less writing them off. And, if they're not...you can move forward knowing you gave it your best shot -- confidently.

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