As exciting as a job interview can be, it's also a highly stressful experience. After preparing extensively and putting your best foot forward, it's understandable to feel a sense of relief once it's over. However, it's important to remember that the interview process doesn't necessarily end there. Following up afterwards can be a crucial step in solidifying your chances of getting the job.
One of the most traditional yet effective ways to follow up after an interview is by sending a thank you note. It's important to be prompt with this as well, and ideally, it should be sent within 24 hours of your interview. This note should express your gratitude for the opportunity to interview, and briefly restate your interest in the position. It's also helpful to mention something specific that you enjoyed talking about in the interview, such as a project the company is working on or a particular skill set that you can bring to the table.
In some cases, the interviewer may have requested additional information or follow-up steps from you during the interview. It's important that you follow up on these in a timely manner, as this shows your dedication and attention to detail. If you aren't sure what the next steps should be, it's perfectly acceptable to email the interviewer and request clarification.
Even if you don't end up getting the job, it's always a good idea to keep in touch with your interviewer and show ongoing interest in the company. This can be achieved through LinkedIn connections, occasional emails or simply checking in to see how things are going. Building a genuine connection with the interviewer can greatly benefit your future job prospects, as you never know where their next opportunity may arise.
If you feel that there's something that you didn't get a chance to fully explain during the interview or if you've developed new ideas since then, don't hesitate to provide additional materials. This could be in the form of a project proposal or a writing sample. This shows your dedication to the position and your willingness to go above and beyond to demonstrate your skills and value as an employee.
Finally, it's important to close the loop and ask for feedback. If you haven't heard back from the interviewer within the timeframe they provided, don't be afraid to follow up and ask about their decision. This provides closure and shows that you're serious about the position and would like to hear feedback on how you could improve in future interviews.
By following these strategies, you'll be able to demonstrate your dedication and interest in the position and greatly increase your chances of landing the job.