The importance of following up after an interview, and how it can help you land your dream role

An appropriate, polite and prompt follow-up is not just a courtesy, but a strategic move to keep you at the forefront of the selection process. This is your final chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role.

If you gained new insight into the role/company, and feel you have any extra achievements or experience that could reinforce your value to the team, you should seize the opportunity squeeze in every last chance to boost your success in being selected.

When and how to make contact

This will depend on many factors, such as the hiring process thus far, other interviews to be held, or any company procedures.

Keep in mind what has been advised already - if you were told to expect an outcome in no less than 7 days’ time, make sure to respect this part of the process.

If the recruiter prefers phone communications, call them if you’ve not received an outcome by the expected date. If you built a great rapport with the hiring manager during the interview and they gave you their direct contact phone or email, you could give them a quick follow up - this may show an eagerness and confidence to help you stand out from other candidates.

Always clarify when to next expect to hear back, and don’t push it! Wait. Patiently. Once this time passes, feel free to reach out again. If you do make contact and your call/email goes unanswered and you don’t hear anything back, give it at least 24 hours before your next attempt. The more days that pass, allow for more time before making contact again.

When you’re unsuccessful

First and foremost, always remain polite and professional. Express gratitude for the opportunity, and their time and consideration.

You may not receive a reason why your application was not successful, however it doesn’t hurt to ask if you get the chance. If you wish, you can ask for feedback on what you could do to improve your chances. Keep in mind that sometimes roles are cancelled or put on hold, so it’s not always you.

Unfortunately, it may (rarely) happen that you may not even hear back from a company, which is never nice. Every application and process helps build your experience for the next time.

If you change your mind

If at any point during the hiring process, you are no longer interested in the position for any reason, make sure that you update the company ASAP. It doesn’t matter whether you have changed your mind, received an offer elsewhere, or had a change in circumstances - you don’t have to go into detail if you aren’t comfortable. It is just important that you advise the recruiter so they can continue the hiring process. They will appreciate the honesty.