Following Up in Your Job Search

You should be in charge of controlling the job search and interview process, instead of the employer. One way to do take command is to follow up after an interview with the person/people you interviewed with. By taking the initiative, you can avoid being frustrated and stop wondering, "Why aren't they getting back to me?"

Job Search Follow-up with Employers

This scenario is all too common for job seekers: You had a great interview on a Thursday, and the contact person said they would get back to you early next week. However, you didn’t receive any email or phone call. You waited until Thursday of the following week before you emailed them, and still no reply.

The weekend comes and you’re starting to boil over. “I can’t believe how rude and unprofessional people are today,” goes the comment about 20 times over the two days.

What can you do now? In reality, the follow ups should have been sooner (like on Tuesday mid-morning in the above situation) and more frequent. However, it’s time to reach out again.

Change the Communication Medium When Following Up in your Job Search

If you emailed last time, call them this time. If you’ve already done both, email again or send a text. Be sure to be polite and professional. Don’t let your frustration come through.

Don’t assume that your interviewer is simply unprofessional, because that is the least likely possibility. Your contact might be on an unexpected leave. Maybe they are having health issues? Who knows if they are still with the organization even? Reach out to someone else inside the company and see if your contact is still there. Ask for the new person’s help in getting a message to the first person. You might be surprised how quickly you hear from them.

Persistent, polite follow-up communication (emails and phone calls) is key to getting and keeping your foot in the door for the employment opportunities you want.