You interviewed for the job (I’m sure you were excellent) then followed up and...nothing. Can you follow up again? Yes, you can. Tactfully.
5 tips for following up for the second time after an interview
1. Be polite and professional
This is actual text I received in such an email: Hi Emily, emailing to see what the deal is with the hiring process. Cringeworthy. Unprofessional. Just don’t.
2. Send it the same person you sent it to the first time
Simply hit reply on your first follow-up email. No need to start a new one or follow up with someone else. Use your primary point of contact. And don’t copy in the recipient’s manager—it’ll come off as irritating.
3. Keep it short
Recruiters and hiring managers are 1) likely hiring for more than the position you interviewed for and 2) are doing all of their other job duties as well.
4. Follow the 3x3 rule
The follow-ups rule I stick to is this: Follow up no more than three times at least three days apart. You’re on number two. Make the most of it.
5. If they asked you not to follow up, then don’t
Some recruiters and hiring managers simply want the space to consider applicants.
3 ways to follow up for the second time after an interview
The… “super short and sweet”
Hi [Name],
Following up to check on the hiring process for the new editor. I’m very interested in the position, particularly the opportunity to grow a new team.
Cheers,
[Your name]
The…“here’s a little extra nugget”
Hi [Name],
I wanted to pass along my latest bit of research: [Link]
I discussed this with Priya in my interview and thought it might be of interest in the hiring process. Happy to answer any questions about my work—I’m very proud of it and would love the chance to bring the same sense of excellence to your magazine.
Best,
[Your name]
The…“I’ve been thinking, and I can solve your problem”
[Hi Name],
Since our conversation last Monday I’ve been thinking about your scale problem—I think it all comes down to efficient processes. If you can move your team to a process management tool and spend one week having everyone document their job duties, I feel like you could cut production time by 15 percent.
Would love to talk more about this. Hope all is going well with the project manager search.
Best,
[Your name]
Read more: How to Find a Job You Love (No, Really)
