Follow-up after the job interview with HR

Issue 125

Introduction

Securing a job interview is an important step towards your career goals. However, your efforts shouldn't end once the interview is over. Following up with the HR department or recruiter is a crucial part of the job application process that can greatly influence the final decision. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of a follow-up after a job interview with HR, understand the dos and don'ts, and provide you with valuable examples to help you craft a compelling follow-up message.

Importance of Follow-Up:

1. Reinforce Your Interest: A well-crafted follow-up message allows you to reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and the company. It demonstrates your dedication and commitment to securing the role.

2. Personal Connection: Following up gives you an opportunity to establish a personal connection with the HR representative. It helps you stand out among other candidates and leaves a lasting impression.

3. Clarify Any Uncertainties: A follow-up message can be an ideal platform to address any uncertainties or answer additional questions that may have arisen during the interview. This shows your proactive nature and attention to detail.

Dos of Follow-Up:

1. Send a Thank-You Note: Expressing gratitude is a crucial element of a follow-up. Send a thank-you note or email within 24-48 hours after the interview, thanking the HR representative for their time and the opportunity to interview.

Example: "Dear [HR Representative's Name],

I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to interview for the [Position] at [Company]. It was truly a pleasure to speak with you and gain further insight into the company's vision and goals. I am particularly excited about the potential to contribute my skills and experience to [Company's Name]."

2. Highlight Key Points: Use the follow-up message to emphasize your qualifications, relevant experiences, and any important points that were discussed during the interview. This helps to reinforce your suitability for the role.

Example: "I wanted to reiterate my strong background in [specific skill or experience] that we discussed during the interview. My previous experience at [Company/Organization] allowed me to develop a comprehensive understanding of [relevant expertise], and I am confident that these skills align perfectly with the requirements of the [Position]."

3. Address Any Pending Queries: If there were any unanswered questions during the interview or if you require further clarification on certain aspects, politely address them in your follow-up message. This displays your genuine interest and attention to detail.

Example: "Additionally, I wanted to seek clarification on [specific question or concern] that we briefly discussed during the interview. I believe that obtaining further information regarding [topic] will help me gain a deeper understanding of the role and contribute effectively to [Company's Name]."

Don'ts of Follow-Up:

1. Being Pushy or Desperate: While it is essential to demonstrate your interest, avoid sounding desperate or overly persistent in your follow-up. Maintain a professional and courteous tone throughout your message.

2. Sending Multiple Follow-Ups: A single follow-up message is sufficient to express your gratitude and interest. Bombarding the HR representative with multiple emails or messages can be perceived as invasive and may have a negative impact on your candidacy.

3. Neglecting Grammar and Spelling: Pay close attention to grammar, punctuation, and spelling in your follow-up message. Errors can give a negative impression and may undermine your professionalism.

Conclusion

Following up after a job interview with HR or recruiter is an integral part of the job application process. It allows you to reinforce your interest, establish a personal connection, and clarify any uncertainties. By following the dos and avoiding the don'ts outlined in this guide, you can craft a compelling follow-up message that leaves a positive and enthusiasm.