One of the easiest ways for an applicant to stand out is to have a strong follow-up strategy. All too often, applicants attend the interview and then do nothing. Without any follow-up, the interviewer forgets about the applicant. In some industries, not following up can be seen as unprofessional or even rude. The simple gesture of following up after an interview can help a candidate secure a new position.
1. Send a Thank-You Email Within 24 Hours
Traditionally, candidates would send a follow-up letter to interviewers. Today, you can do the same thing with a short email. This is your chance to thank the interviewer for their time. You can also follow up with any questions left unanswered during the interview. Perhaps you would like to clarify something you weren’t clear about during the interview. Don’t forget to reiterate your interest in the position.
2. Reaffirm Your Qualifications
When following up, this is your chance to reaffirm your qualifications. To avoid sounding boastful or overly confident, relate your skills, experience, and knowledge to the position you interviewed for. By doing so, you reinforce your ability to perform the job. It establishes your suitability for the position, showing the interviewer that you paid attention to the qualifications.
3. Provide a Work Sample or Portfolio
For some professions, having a portfolio or work samples can be appropriate. If you did not or could not bring this to the interview, following up is a perfect time to provide these. Perhaps you have an online portfolio and can include the link in your email. Another option is to attach the files to your email. Ask the interviewer during the interview what format they would prefer. Some corporate email systems will filter emails with outside links or attachments. Asking ensures your email makes it to them.
4. Stay Positive Regardless of Outcome
Ultimately, a candidate cannot control what an interview or company decides to do. You may be perfect for a position and not get a job offer. This can feel discouraging. However, it is important to stay positive and professional. You never know when you will interact with the interviewer in the future. By staying positive, you create a good impression, ensuring future opportunities stay open to you.
5. Connect on LinkedIn
If it is appropriate, consider connecting with the interviewer on LinkedIn. This allows you to connect with the individual for networking purposes. Even if you don’t get the job, they may be aware of other opportunities for which you would be a good fit. However, this isn’t a good approach for all industries and positions. Use your discretion when considering this approach.
Follow Up With These Best Practices
By keeping these six tips in mind, candidates can stand out when they follow up after an interview. This is the perfect opportunity to reinforce qualifications, provide additional information, and showcase professionalism. Another method for standing out is to work with a recruiter. The recruiter can assist with following up and ensuring your application gets the attention it deserves.
Work with the BOS Staffing team to secure your next position.
