Following up after an interview is key as it keeps you front of mind with the employer. However, it’s crucial that this is done in the right way as you’ll want to leave a positive impression.
In this article, we’ll explore a few ways you can follow up after an interview.
When to follow up after an interview
When following up after an interview it’s important to wait for a couple of days, as getting in touch too quickly can make you look overly eager. If the employer gave you a decision period you should wait 2-3 business days after this period has passed before you get in touch with them.
How to follow up after an interview?
When it comes to following up after an interview you should stick to any instructions the hiring manager has given you i.e. contacting them through a specified email. This will show that you can follow instructions, communicate well and are respectful of their processes.
How to write a follow up email after an interview
Here are a few simple things you should do when writing a follow up email after an interview:
- Write your subject line - Keep this short and simple. It’s best to follow on from an existing email chain if possible. This keeps everything organised. For example, if you have already communicated with the individual who conducted your interview, you would find the most recent email in this thread and ‘reply’ to it.. You can then update your subject line tolook something like ‘[your name] - Follow up regarding interview on the 21st April 2025’. Alternatively, if it is a new email, you can use this as a fresh subject line.
- Personalise your greeting - Depending on the tone of the interview, you can match this in your email. For example, if it was very relaxed and casual, you could start with ‘Hi [interviewer’s name]. If it felt more formal, it is best to start with ‘Dear’. Address them by the name they gave when they introduced themselves. If they used an abbreviation then use this to show you have paid attention.
- Thank the hiring manager - When writing a follow up email after an interview you should thank the interviewer for their time and reiterate your enthusiasm around the role. You should state that you’re following up on your interview and take a positive approach.
- Request an update - You should politely ask for an update on the hiring process and can use it as an opportunity to ask any further questions.
- Write your closing statement - You should end your email by letting the interviewer know that they can get in touch with you if they have any further questions, as well as a positive sign off likelike ‘I look forward to hearing from you soon’.
- Double-check your email - Before sending your email it’s important to double-check it to make sure there are no errors. It’s really important to check you spelled their name right!
Example follow up interview email
Dear [interviewer’s name],
Thank you for taking the time to interview me on [date of the interview], it was lovely meeting you.
It was great to hear more about the role and I’m excited about the opportunity of working with [company name]. I’m particularly interested in [specific part of the job in the job description or area discussed during the interview].
I’m emailing to clarify whether there is an update on the hiring process and whether there are any potential next steps.
Let me know if there is anything I can provide to help with your decision-making process.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Kind regards,
[your name]
How to ask for feedback after an interview?
Whether you have been offered the job or, unfortunately, not, asking for feedback after an interview can be very useful to learn what areas you could improve for next time. When requesting feedback from an interviewer, there are a few things you should do:
Be courteous
It’s important to note that interviewers are not required to give you feedback, so remaining courteous is crucial for obtaining a response.
Thank the interviewer
When asking for feedback you should thank the interviewer for the time they gave you when conducting the interview. You can express how positive your experience was talking to them about the opportunity. Then, you can state your disappointment in not getting to the next stage in a professional way that allows you to build a relationship with the interviewer and gain feedback.
Give an explanation
You should clearly outline why you’re requesting feedback. You can say something like ‘I’m continuously looking for ways to improve to help me with my job search and would appreciate receiving some feedback from you relating to my interview’.
Our top 4 tips for asking for feedback after being rejected
- Don’t respond immediately - Take the time to write a well worded, professional response that’s likely to get you an answer. Responding too quickly can make you look panicked and give a negative impression.
- Be concise - Overly long emails are likely to go unread. Create a concise and polite response instead.
- Proofread your response - Ensure there are no spelling mistakes or errors as you’re still creating an image for yourself that could help you if future opportunities arise.
- Always use positive language - Staying positive and polite will increase your chances of gaining a response. It’s possible that employers may contact previous candidates that missed out on a role they applied for with relevant future roles to gauge interest. Maintaining a positive and professional tone will help to make an impression that stands out against others.
Examples of interview feedback
Dear [interviewer’s name],
Thank you for taking the time to interview me on [interview date], it was great to meet you.
I’m keen to keep developing my interview skills and would appreciate any feedback you have that could help me improve for my future job search.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Kind regards,
[Your name]
For further advice and guidance on gaining a job, our employment services are here to equip people with the right skills and support to find work.
