Top Tips on Following Up After a Job Interview

Following up a job interview has the potential to give you a clear advantage over other candidates, putting you front and centre of the recruiter’s mind, however sometimes it can be a risky venture.

There are a few things to consider that can determine how your follow up is received.

Do you call, email or post a response? What do you say? How do you say it? And will any kind of follow-up look too eager to potential employers?

Using some simple guidelines, you can ensure that you leave a positive impression when making first contact after your interview.

End your job interview on the right note

Lay your follow-up groundwork at the end of the interview itself. Don’t be afraid to clarify the next steps in the recruitment process for the role.

The interviewer might say it will be a lengthy process, or a decision will be made within the week.

This gives you a timeline for your response, and something to refer to when you make contact.

Choose your follow-up method

Whichever method you select, make your communication clear, concise and low-key.

• Phone call. This is a quick and direct way to contact your recruiter, though you might find yourself leaving messages if they’re hard to get hold of.
• Email. This allows you to control exactly what you say and doesn’t encroach on your recruiter’s time.
• Hand-written note. Yes, an attractive, subtle and well-worded card is still a great way to remind your recruiter that you’re keen.
• LinkedIn. Make contact via LinkedIn profiles in a polite, business-like manner.

Avoid texting and other forms of social media which are deemed less professional mediums. And don’t follow up too soon or too frequently – once is generally enough!

Use your follow-up wisely

However you decide to follow up, it’s worth being clear about what you’re trying to achieve.

There are several different things you can convey when you make contact.

• A simple thank you. It’s surprising how effective a thank you note can be. Thank your recruiter/s for the chance to meet and discuss the possibilities of the role.
   
• Point out what you learned at the interview. We all take something from our interviews – perhaps we realise an overlooked strength or learn something new about the company or job position. Mentioning this shows interest, self-awareness and ability to learn.
   
• Avoid the word ‘interview’. Talk about the interview in terms of a ‘meeting’ or ‘discussion’ to convey the idea of a gathering of equals. This indicates self-respect.
   
• Offer useful information. Is there anything you can offer the recruiter to show your level of knowledge and interest? If you referenced a website or achievement in the interview, send them the relevant link to browse.
   
• Add some news about yourself. It’s very common to overlook something at the interview. Having mulled over the interview, give a brief piece of new information which enhances your chance of being selected.

Our Team at Frontline Construction can give you valuable interview follow-up tips along with access to great Construction jobs. Please get in touch to discuss your current situation.