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Following up after an interview is a really good move, and in general, it’s expected, but there are right and wrong ways to go about it. Contract Accountants has some advice to offer about approaching this part of the job-seeking process in the right manner.
Ask about next steps before you leave the interview
It’s not pushy to ask about the what the next steps will be when the interview has concluded, so make sure to find out before you leave. You are job-seeking, after all, so it’s helpful to at least know how long their current interviewing process is going to be in order to have an idea of when you might hear from them. Don’t be afraid to ask, but at the same time, take their first answer and ask no further questions.
Make notes as soon as you get home
Write down the names of who interviewed you, their input, any concerns they may have expressed and any other poignant information that might have emerged during the interview. Also note down any observations you had about the interview in general. Be specific and thorough – you might think you’ll remember it all but don’t take that chance. You’ll only use a portion of the information you have but it’s a good idea to note it all down so you can pick and choose what to mention.
Consider hand-writing your thank you note
Essentially, the follow up note or letter is a thank you to the interviewer(s) for making the time to see you. Though a hand written note might seem a tad old-fashioned, it demonstrates a considerate personal touch as opposed to a quickly put-together e-mail you shot over to them during your coffee break. However, if you’re not comfortable with hand-writing a note, then go for the email. Just make sure you consider the layout, keeping it formal and letter-like.
Don’t wait
When it comes to sending that note – do it as soon as possible. Send the note within 24 hours of the interview.
Personalise
If you were interviewed by multiple people, then make sure you tailor each note you write. Don’t send the same one to all. This is where those initial notes you took after the interview can help.
Use the opportunity to mention what you forgot to
If you forgot a piece of information during the interview that you’d like the interviewer(s) to know, then you can use the thank note as an opportunity for this. However, if you forgot something significant, such as your notice period, then the thank you note is not the way to go about delivering that information as it may need some discussion. In this case, a follow up phone call might be a better option.
Keep it short and sweet
Your note should be quick and easy to read. Don’t try to cram too much into it. Ideally, it should be one paragraph long and no more.
Proof it!
Do not let that note go until you are sure it is perfectly worded and error-free. You made a great first impression (hopefully!) so don’t make a poor final one!
Getting the thank you note right is easy when you approach it the right way and it can really help to ensure a favourable memory your interview for those present.