Situation: Interview Follow Up
Use this script to follow up after an interview if you haven’t heard anything back.
Preparation:
- Send a written thank you note within 48 hours after the interview.
- If you were given a timeframe in the interview for a decision or next step and that time has passed (at least one day after the date you were told — but preferably 2-3 days afterward, since people are busy), it’s a good idea to follow up.
- Note: Consider an email as your first follow-up unless the hiring manager gave you permission at the end of the interview to call OR if it’s been more than a week and you haven’t received a reply to your email follow-up.
Make the Call:
Hi. This is (your name) and I interviewed with you for the position of (job title) on (date).
I wanted to reiterate that I’m very interested in the job, and I wondered: Are you close to making a decision yet?
[If no: I wanted to be sure you had all the information you needed from me. Is there anything else I can provide you with to help you make your decision?] [If yes: That’s great. Am I still being considered?
Do you have a timetable for when you expect to make the decision? What is the next step?
[If the answer is “I don’t know” or you are given a future date, ask if you can follow-up.]
When would be an appropriate time for me to check back with you? I’m excited about this opportunity, but I know these things take time.
[Hiring manager may give a specific time or may be noncommittal.]
Thanks again for the opportunity to be considered for this job.
How It Might Sound:
You: Hi. This is Jim Jones, and I interviewed with you for the position of PR Specialist on the 28th. I wanted to let you know I’m still very interested in this job, and I wondered if you are close to making a decision yet.
Hiring Manager: I’m sorry, I’ve been swamped and haven’t had time to schedule the next round of interviews.
You: No problem. Am I still being considered for the job? And if so, is there anything else I can provide you with to help you make your decision?
Hiring Manager: No, I think I have everything I need.
You: Great. When would be an appropriate time for me to check back in with you? I’m excited about this opportunity, but I know these things take time.
Hiring Manager: Maybe in a week or two?
You: Thank you, I’ll check back in on the 17th then. Thanks again for the opportunity to be considered for this job.
