The job interview might be over, but your opportunity to make an impression isn't. How you follow up after an interview can significantly influence whether you receive a job offer. Many Australian job seekers overlook this crucial step or handle it poorly, missing chances to reinforce their candidacy and demonstrate professionalism. This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to master the post-interview follow-up process.
Why Following Up Matters
Following up after an interview serves multiple purposes that can tip the scales in your favour. First, it keeps you visible in the interviewer's mind during a decision-making process that might take days or weeks. Second, it demonstrates professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine interest in the role. Third, it provides an opportunity to address any concerns that may have arisen during the interview or reinforce key selling points.
In the Australian job market, where courtesy and relationship-building are valued, a thoughtful follow-up can distinguish you from equally qualified candidates who didn't take this extra step. Hiring managers frequently mention that well-executed follow-ups positively influence their final decisions.
The Thank You Email: Your First Follow-Up
The thank you email is the foundation of your post-interview strategy. Send it within 24 hours of your interview, ideally on the same day while the conversation is still fresh in everyone's minds.
What to Include
- Express gratitude: Thank the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to learn about the role
- Reference specifics: Mention something memorable from your conversation that demonstrates you were engaged
- Reinforce your fit: Briefly reiterate why you're an excellent match for the position
- Address any gaps: If you fumbled a question or forgot to mention something important, briefly address it
- Express continued interest: Confirm your enthusiasm for the role and the company
Sample Thank You Email
Subject: Thank you for the Marketing Manager interview
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today to discuss the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name]. I enjoyed learning more about your team's innovative approach to digital campaigns, particularly the multi-channel strategy you mentioned for the upcoming product launch.
Our conversation reinforced my enthusiasm for this opportunity. My experience leading similar campaigns at [Previous Company], where I increased engagement by 45% through integrated social and email marketing, aligns well with your team's goals.
I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Company Name]'s continued growth. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need any additional information.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Multiple Interviewers
If you met with several people, send individualised thank you emails to each person. Avoid copying and pasting the same message; instead, reference something specific from your conversation with each individual. This personalisation shows attention to detail and respect for everyone's time.
Timing Your Follow-Up Communications
Understanding when to follow up is just as important as knowing what to say. The Australian business culture values patience and respect, so finding the right balance between persistence and patience is crucial.
The Recommended Timeline
- Within 24 hours: Send your thank you email
- At the stated deadline: If they mentioned a decision timeline (e.g., "We'll be in touch within two weeks"), wait until that period has passed before following up
- One week after deadline: If you haven't heard back and they provided a timeline, send a polite enquiry
- Two weeks after interview: If no timeline was given, this is an appropriate point to check in
What Not to Do
Avoid following up too frequently or through multiple channels simultaneously. Sending daily emails, calling repeatedly, or reaching out on LinkedIn while also emailing comes across as desperate rather than enthusiastic. One well-timed, professional follow-up is far more effective than multiple attempts. For more interview strategies, visit our interview tips guide.
The Status Check Email
When the expected decision timeline has passed without word, it's appropriate to send a status check email. This should be brief, professional, and respectful of the hiring team's time.
Key Elements
- Keep it concise (3-4 sentences maximum)
- Reference your interview date and the position
- Express continued interest
- Ask politely about the timeline
- Offer to provide any additional information
Sample Status Check Email
Subject: Following up on Marketing Manager interview
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my interview for the Marketing Manager position on [date]. I remain very interested in the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to your marketing initiatives.
If there's any additional information I can provide to assist in your decision-making process, please let me know. I look forward to hearing from you when you have an update.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Handling Common Scenarios
When You Don't Hear Back
Silence after an interview is frustrating but common. After your initial thank you and one status check, limit yourself to one more follow-up attempt approximately two weeks later. If you still receive no response, it's generally best to move forward with your job search while remaining open to future contact.
When They Say They're Still Deciding
If you receive a response indicating the process is ongoing, thank them for the update and ask if there's a new expected timeline. Avoid sending further follow-ups until that new date has passed. Use this waiting period productively by continuing to research the company and prepare for potential next steps.
When You Receive a Rejection
A professional response to rejection maintains your reputation and keeps doors open for future opportunities. Thank them for considering you, express appreciation for their time, and ask if they would be willing to provide feedback. Many candidates skip this step, but gracious rejection handling can lead to referrals or consideration for future roles.
When You Receive an Offer
Congratulations! Express enthusiasm and gratitude, then ask about the timeline for your response if it isn't specified. Even if you plan to accept immediately, take time to review the offer details carefully. For guidance on evaluating and negotiating offers, see our salary negotiation strategies.
LinkedIn as a Follow-Up Tool
LinkedIn can complement your email follow-up strategy when used appropriately. After sending your thank you email, consider sending a brief LinkedIn connection request with a personalised message. Keep it professional and reference your interview, but don't use it as another channel to enquire about your application status.
Connecting on LinkedIn establishes a professional relationship that extends beyond this particular opportunity. Even if you don't get this role, maintaining the connection could lead to future opportunities. For more on leveraging LinkedIn effectively, check our LinkedIn optimisation guide.
What to Do While Waiting
The period between interview and decision can feel endless, but use it productively rather than anxiously refreshing your inbox.
Continue Your Job Search
Never stop applying for other positions while waiting on one opportunity. The job market is competitive, and having multiple applications in progress protects you against disappointment while potentially giving you negotiating leverage if multiple offers arrive simultaneously.
Prepare for Next Steps
Use the waiting time to prepare for potential second interviews or reference checks. Ensure your references are ready and informed, review your notes from the first interview, and research additional company developments.
Maintain Professional Development
Continue building skills and knowledge relevant to your target roles. This ongoing development demonstrates commitment to your career and provides talking points for future interviews.
Conclusion
Mastering the post-interview follow-up is a skill that can significantly impact your job search success. By sending thoughtful thank you emails, timing your status checks appropriately, and maintaining professionalism throughout the process, you demonstrate the qualities employers value most: attention to detail, strong communication skills, and genuine interest in contributing to their organisation.
Remember that every interaction with a potential employer is an opportunity to reinforce your candidacy. Even if you don't land this particular role, a professional follow-up approach builds your reputation and can lead to future opportunities. Ready to prepare for your next interview? Explore our comprehensive job hunting resources to maximise your chances of success.