Sunday, January 22, 2012

Don’t just be another interviewee: the importance of a post-interview follow-up

Sending a thank you email after an interview is an important part of the job search process. Whether you are interviewing for a permanent position, a paid internship, or an unpaid internship, do not consider the interview to be over until you have sent the thank you note.

Within 24 hours of your interview, send an email to each person you met. (Remember to ask for their business card so you have their contact information and correct spelling of their name). Thank them for their time, how nice it was to meet them, reiterate your interest in the position and highlight your top qualifications, and that you are looking forward to hearing from them.

Short, simple, QUICK, but key to landing that job.

When a follow-up is handled correctly, you will differentiate yourself from the other candidates and help sway the decision in your favor. By following up, you show many qualities that employers are looking for, such as dedication, ability to properly communicate, and a true interest in the position.

As always, make sure you have double and triple checked your spelling and grammar, especially their name and company name. The little details make a big difference!

Have you ever followed-up and received positive feedback? Have any special tips to share, let us know!

This guest blog was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Brianna Rooney.

3 comments:

Jessica Lawlor said...

Great advice, but I'd also recommend sending a handwritten thank you note, in addition to an email. It seems like less and less people are doing that now, so it will set you apart even more!

Brianna Rooney said...

Jess, thank you so much for the addition to the blog! Handwritten thank you notes are slowly being forgotten but are just as important and make a lasting impression! Thank you, everyone will get the job now for sure!

Rigzter said...

I agree. Most of the time, interviewees like me, but now I'm hired, just get into the feel of getting interviewed and not keeping in mind the job you are aiming-the reason why you are getting an interview.

Frequently, interviewees just let it pass by. They just served as a social company for the interviewer and then leave.

Usually, in the stage before an interview, the interviewee's first thought in mind should be, "I should make a good impression for the hiring manager."

Unfortunately, during the interview, they lose focus, get nervous or get carried away with their conversation that they already forgot the goal of ensuring the slot for the job and making that WOW impression to the interviewer. And sometimes, they totally forget about follow-up. And a good follow-up is indeed Thank you emails or Thank you noted after an interview. That should leave a mark.