If you’ve been selected to interview for a job, it typically means you’re a serious contender for the position. At this stage of your search process, follow-up is extremely critical. In fact, it can significantly affect whether or not you progress to the next stage in the hiring process or ultimately, receive an offer.
Increasingly, email follow-up messages are better received by hiring managers – versus hand-written notes – because they are easily saved and shared, and response is efficient and easy. Post-interview emails should be sent within 24 hours to everyone with whom you interviewed or interacted with during the session.
Why Your Follow up Message is Important
Prompt follow up via a well-crafted and timely email is not only a way of expressing your gratitude for an interview opportunity, but it also reinforces your qualifications and continued interest in the position.
Other reasons why you need to take this important step include:
- By following up, you have another opportunity to demonstrate positive qualities typically sought by potential employers, including tenacity, dedication, attention to detail and the ability to follow through.
- Some employers use follow up (or lack thereof) as a screening tool in the hiring process. If there are a number of similarly qualified candidates on the short list for filling a position, effective follow up can be a strategic means of tipping the scales in your favor.
- Following up after an interview gives you a confidence boost and additional inspiration to move forward in pursuing your desired job.
Tips for Getting it Right
Keep these tips in mind as you write and send your follow-up email:
- Get the right contact information. Find the correct names and addresses of the people to whom you are sending your message. Be sure spelling and grammar are flawless and that there are no typos or other errors.
- In your email, thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you.
- Highlight your relevant skills and experience. Briefly summarize why the position is an excellent match based on your assets and interest.
- Promote your candidacy. Remind the employer what a positive role you would play and valuable contribution you would make to the company.
- Maintain a positive attitude. Even if you are not selected, your follow-up can mean the employer will keep you in mind for future openings.
Job searching is a multifaceted process. It’s extremely important that you orchestrate each step to your benefit. A career coach or recruiting specialist can be a valuable partner as you find and secure the job of your dreams. To learn more, Contact Alternative Staffing Today.