Job interviews can be stressful, but the time you have to wait after them can be even more so. You think about your answers over and over, check your email over and over, and wonder:
- Should I get in touch again?
- Will it make me seem pushy?
- What if they said no to me already?
But timing and tone are important. If you follow up too soon, you could seem impatient. You risk losing the opportunity to improve your candidacy if you wait too long.
In this full guide, we'll look at:
- Why it's important to follow up
- When to write an email to follow up
- What to say and what not to say
- How often to check back
- What to do if you don't get a response
- Templates you may use right away
Why It's Important to Follow Up After an Interview
Many candidates believe their work ends once the interview concludes. That's not quite right.
There are a few significant reasons to do a follow-up:
1. It makes you more interested
Hiring supervisors talk to many people who want the job. An email to follow up reminds them that you really want the job.
2. It shows that you are professional.
Quick communication shows that you are mature, organized, and appreciate the process.
3. It keeps you in people's minds
Recruiters typically have to deal with many roles and prospects at once. A thoughtful follow-up will remind people of your name.
4. It lets you add value
You can explain something you didn't understand, give further examples of your work, or reinforce your best skills.
In a competitive job climate, modest signs of professionalism might set you apart from other candidates who are just as qualified.
When should you check back?
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Timing is vital.
1. Send a thank-you email within 24 hours
This is not up for discussion.
You should send a thank-you email within 12 to 24 hours of your interview.
It should:
- Say thank you
- Talk about something specific that was spoken
- Reconfirm interest
- Keep it short
2. Check back in if you haven't heard back (5–7 business days)
Respect the timeline that the interviewer gave you.
For instance:
"We'll get back to you by Friday." ← Don't follow up until Monday or Tuesday.
If you didn't get a timetable, wait 5 to 7 business days before sending a courteous check-in.
This shows that you are interested and patient at the same time.
3. If they said decisions will take longer
Some hiring managers say, "We're interviewing people for the next two weeks."
If that's the case:
Wait until the time given is up.
Then check back in 2 to 3 business days.
Don't ever follow up before the deadline.
How to Write a Follow-Up Email That Looks Professional
More than information, tone is important.
You want to sound like
Sure, Respectful, Interested Professional. Doesn't sound like:
Demanding, angry, and desperate
Entitled
How to Write a Strong Follow-Up Email
1. Subject Line That Is Clear
For example:
Follow Up on the [Job Title] Interview
Checking In—[Job Title] Interview
Thanks, [Your Name], [Job Title]
Be professional and keep it basic.
2. Hello
Use the interviewer's name when you talk to them.
"Dear Mr. Sharma,"
"Hello Jennifer,"
Use the same tone they did with you.
3. Say thank you
Thank them again for the chance to do this.
"Thanks again for taking the time to talk to me last week about the marketing analyst job."
4. Make sure they are interested and a good fit
Say again why you're excited in a few words.
For example, "Talking about the upcoming product launch made me even more interested in helping with your digital growth strategy."
5. Asking about someone's status in a polite way
Be gentle and polite with this.
For example, "I wanted to check in to see if there were any changes to the hiring timeline."
"Why haven't I heard back yet?"
6. Closing in a professional way
Finish on a positive note.
For example:
Follow Up on the [Job Title] Interview
Checking In—[Job Title] Interview
Thanks, [Your Name], [Job Title]
Be professional and keep it basic.
2. Hello
Use the interviewer's name when you talk to them.
"Dear Mr. Sharma,"
"Hello Jennifer,"
Use the same tone they did with you.
3. Say thank you
Thank them again for the chance to do this.
"Thanks again for taking the time to talk to me last week about the marketing analyst job."
4. Make sure they are interested and a good fit
Say again why you're excited in a few words.
For example, "Talking about the upcoming product launch made me even more interested in helping with your digital growth strategy."
5. Asking about someone's status in a polite way
Be gentle and polite with this.
For example, "I wanted to check in to see if there were any changes to the hiring timeline."
"Why haven't I heard back yet?"
6. Closing in a professional way
Finish on a positive note.
"Can't wait to hear from you."
"Thanks for taking the time to think about it."
Templates for Follow-Up Emails
Template 1: Follow-Up After One Week
Subject: Follow-Up on the Interview for the Marketing Executive
Dear [Interviewer],
I hope you're doing well. I wanted to get in touch about the marketing executive job I interviewed for on [date]. I really liked having the chance to learn more about the team and the campaigns that are coming up.
I am still very interested in helping you expand your digital business, and I think my experience in performance marketing fits nicely with what you want to do.
If there are any changes to the future phases, please let me know. Once again, thank you for your time and thought.
Best wishes,
[Your Name]
Template 2: A Short and Simple Version
Subject: Checking In - Role of Product Manager
Hey [Name],
I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to follow up on the product manager interview from last week. I'm really looking forward to the chance and would love to hear any news when you have time.
Thanks again for your time.
Best,
[Your Name]
Template 3: If the Timeline Has Passed
Subject: Following Up - Interview with a Software Developer
Hi [Name],
I hope this communication finds you well. You said the team wanted to decide by [date], so I wanted to see if there was any news.
I'm still excited about the chance and would be pleased to give you any more information you require.
Once again, thank you for your time.
Best wishes,
[Your Name]
Subject: Follow-Up on the Interview for the Marketing Executive
Dear [Interviewer],
I hope you're doing well. I wanted to get in touch about the marketing executive job I interviewed for on [date]. I really liked having the chance to learn more about the team and the campaigns that are coming up.
I am still very interested in helping you expand your digital business, and I think my experience in performance marketing fits nicely with what you want to do.
If there are any changes to the future phases, please let me know. Once again, thank you for your time and thought.
Best wishes,
[Your Name]
Template 2: A Short and Simple Version
Subject: Checking In - Role of Product Manager
Hey [Name],
I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to follow up on the product manager interview from last week. I'm really looking forward to the chance and would love to hear any news when you have time.
Thanks again for your time.
Best,
[Your Name]
Template 3: If the Timeline Has Passed
Subject: Following Up - Interview with a Software Developer
Hi [Name],
I hope this communication finds you well. You said the team wanted to decide by [date], so I wanted to see if there was any news.
I'm still excited about the chance and would be pleased to give you any more information you require.
Once again, thank you for your time.
Best wishes,
[Your Name]
How Many Times Should You Check Back?
This is where many candidates make mistakes.
Suggested Method:
- 1 email of thanks (within 24 hours)
- 1. Follow up after 5 to 7 business days
- One last follow-up after 7 to 10 days is optional.
If you don't hear back after two follow-ups, you can assume:
- The role is late
- They chose someone else.
- The position was put on hold.
What if they don't answer?
It can be annoying when people don't talk, yet it happens.
What you should do is
Be professional
Don't ever send emails when you're mad or upset.
Go Ahead
Keep applying to other places.
Keep the door open
You can send a final message like this:
"Thanks again for your time. If things change in the future, I would love to get back in touch."
Being professional preserves your reputation in the long run.
Things You Shouldn't Do:
Following Up Too Soon
Sending a follow-up email the next day (after a thank-you email) makes you look impatient.
Being Pushy
Don't say anything like, "I need an update right away."
Sending Long Emails
Make it no more than 150–200 words.
Sounding Uncertain
Don't say, "I know you probably picked a better person..."
Copy and paste messages that are the same.
Make each follow-up unique.
What to Say If You Get Another Offer
While you wait, if you get another offer:
Be open but polite.
For example:
"I wanted to let you know that I got another offer that I have to decide on by [date]. I am still really interested in your position, though, and I wanted to see if there had been any changes to my application status."
This method makes things urgent without putting pressure on them.
The Psychological Effects of a Follow-Up
When done professionally, recruiters usually like follow-ups.
It means:
Sending a follow-up email the next day (after a thank-you email) makes you look impatient.
Being Pushy
Don't say anything like, "I need an update right away."
Sending Long Emails
Make it no more than 150–200 words.
Sounding Uncertain
Don't say, "I know you probably picked a better person..."
Copy and paste messages that are the same.
Make each follow-up unique.
What to Say If You Get Another Offer
While you wait, if you get another offer:
Be open but polite.
For example:
"I wanted to let you know that I got another offer that I have to decide on by [date]. I am still really interested in your position, though, and I wanted to see if there had been any changes to my application status."
This method makes things urgent without putting pressure on them.
The Psychological Effects of a Follow-Up
When done professionally, recruiters usually like follow-ups.
It means:
- Take the lead
- Skill in communication
- A lot of interest
- Professional courtesy
The tone is what makes the difference.
Should you call to follow up?
In general:
If you get a rejection, you can say:
"Thanks for letting me know. Thank you for giving me the chance to interview. "I would appreciate any feedback that could help me get better."
Some recruiters may respond, but not all of them will.
How RiseON Suite Helps You Plan Your Follow-Up After an Interview
It's not enough to merely write an email following an interview; you also need to think about timing, tone, confidence, and how to communicate strategically. Many candidates either don't follow up or do so in a way that seems rushed or unorganized.
This is when RiseON Suite becomes a very helpful support system.
RiseON Suite helps candidates go from waiting with their emotions to taking strategic action by making them more ready to communicate, clearer in interviews, and more confident in their professional skills.
Frameworks for structured communication
One of the worst things candidates can do during follow-ups is seem unsure or too nervous.
RiseON Suite can help you:
Easier Follow-Up After a Strong Interview
Candidates don't like follow-ups when they aren't sure how well they did.
The AI-powered mock interviews in RiseON Suite assist you:
Building confidence through practice
A lot of candidates don't follow up because they're afraid of being turned down.
RiseON Suite helps you feel more confident by:
Personal Branding Alignment
After an interview, hiring managers may look at your LinkedIn page again.
RiseON Suite helps make sure:
Help with strategic decision-making.
If you get another offer and need to follow up right away, you need to be careful with your messages.
RiseON Suite tells applicants how to:
Making Follow-Ups Into Long-Term Career Connections
Your follow-up actions can affect future prospects, even if a role doesn't turn into an offer.
RiseON Suite focuses on:
Last Note
A follow-up email is more than just a reminder; it shows that you are professional.
RiseON Suite can help you:
Last Thoughts
Following up after an interview isn't about getting a decision; it's about showing that you're professional.
The main ideas are:
Should you call to follow up?
In general:
- Email is the best way to get in touch.
- Call only if they asked you to call.
- Don't call recruiters without warning.
- Email keeps records and respects privacy.
If you get a rejection, you can say:
"Thanks for letting me know. Thank you for giving me the chance to interview. "I would appreciate any feedback that could help me get better."
Some recruiters may respond, but not all of them will.
How RiseON Suite Helps You Plan Your Follow-Up After an Interview
It's not enough to merely write an email following an interview; you also need to think about timing, tone, confidence, and how to communicate strategically. Many candidates either don't follow up or do so in a way that seems rushed or unorganized.
This is when RiseON Suite becomes a very helpful support system.
RiseON Suite helps candidates go from waiting with their emotions to taking strategic action by making them more ready to communicate, clearer in interviews, and more confident in their professional skills.
Frameworks for structured communication
One of the worst things candidates can do during follow-ups is seem unsure or too nervous.
RiseON Suite can help you:
- Write short, professional follow-up emails
- Be clear and sure as you structure your communication.
- Find the appropriate balance between being excited and being professional.
- Don't send messages that are emotive or reactionary.
Easier Follow-Up After a Strong Interview
Candidates don't like follow-ups when they aren't sure how well they did.
The AI-powered mock interviews in RiseON Suite assist you:
- Practice real-life situations for interviews
- Use structured frameworks like STAR to improve your answers.
- Make stories easier to understand
- Please take the time to identify your areas for improvement before the actual interview.
Building confidence through practice
A lot of candidates don't follow up because they're afraid of being turned down.
RiseON Suite helps you feel more confident by:
- Making interview rounds feel like they're under a lot of pressure
- Giving feedback on how to talk to people
- Making speech clearer and thoughts more organized
Personal Branding Alignment
After an interview, hiring managers may look at your LinkedIn page again.
RiseON Suite helps make sure:
- Your LinkedIn profile matches what you said in the interview.
- You can consistently measure your accomplishments.
- Your story about your work is obvious.
Help with strategic decision-making.
If you get another offer and need to follow up right away, you need to be careful with your messages.
RiseON Suite tells applicants how to:
- How to professionally talk about competing offers
- How to make people feel like they need to act right away without appearing pushy
- How to talk about things in a polite way
Making Follow-Ups Into Long-Term Career Connections
Your follow-up actions can affect future prospects, even if a role doesn't turn into an offer.
RiseON Suite focuses on:
- Professional closure messages
- Networking based on relationships
- Keeping in touch with recruiters throughout time
Last Note
A follow-up email is more than just a reminder; it shows that you are professional.
RiseON Suite can help you:
- Talk with confidence
- Follow up in a smart way
- Turn interviews into job offers
- Make your professional reputation last for a long time
Last Thoughts
Following up after an interview isn't about getting a decision; it's about showing that you're professional.
The main ideas are:
- Please send a thank-you note within 24 hours.
- Wait 5–7 business days before checking in.
- Stick to the deadlines.
- Keep emails short.
- Follow up only 1–2 times.
- Stay professional even if there is no response.
Keep in mind that hiring processes usually take longer than candidates think.
You want to stay in the public eye, not be a bother.
A well-thought-out follow-up can sometimes make all the difference:
You want to stay in the public eye, not be a bother.
A well-thought-out follow-up can sometimes make all the difference:
- Being forgotten
- Being thought about again
- Or being chosen
References:
Ashurst, A. (2018). How to … organize a successful job interview. Nursing and Residential Care, 20(6), 297–297.
Dixon, D. A. (2015). The article discusses strategies for a successful job interview. The ASHA Leader, 20(5), 32–33.
English, J. M. (2021). The dissertation titled "Hiring manager perceptions of the emotional intelligence skills of urban community college graduates" was published in ScholarWorks by Walden University.
Higgins, C. A., & Judge, T. A. (2004). The effect of applicant influence tactics on recruiter perceptions of fit and hiring recommendations: A field study. Journal of Applied Psychology, 89(4), 622–632.
Jackson, D. (2024). Career resources and securing quality work: Graduate perspectives. Studies in Continuing Education, 1–21.
Journal of Management & Organization. (2025). Candidates’ reactions to job application rejections at different phases of the recruitment process: The impact of employability and communication delays on perceived fairness and recruitment selection outcomes. Cambridge Core.
Amity University. (2024). The influence of observable interview behaviors on the willingness to accept a job offer. Amity Journal of Management, 8(2).