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HOMEADMISSIONS & FINANCIAL AIDDEGREE PROGRAMSVIRTUAL CAMPUSCONTACT USCLICK TO TALK November + December 2005, Issue 33
In Focus Return Home
  The Job Search Is On
The Importance of Follow-up
Following up after a job interview is mandatory. Writing and sending a thank-you note within two days of the interview has become an expectation among hiring employers. In order to stand out, job seekers must be more creative and aggressive in follow-up communication.

When crafting a post-interview thank-you letter, your objectives are to:
  • Express appreciation for the interview,
  • Remind the interviewee of your skill sets are how they're perfectly aligned with the job description,
  • Show unwavering interest in the position,
  • Maintain open lines of communication by including your contact information including your e-mail address.

The thank-you letter can be delivered either by e-mail, snail mail or fax, and should only be handwritten if your penmanship is neat and perfectly legible. E-mail is the fastest delivery option, and, if you use the Return Receipt option, the most reliable.

If, one week after the letter has been delivered, you haven't received feedback, place a phone call to your interviewer. If you reach voicemail or his/her assistant, leave a message inquiring about the receipt of your thank-you note, and indicate that you have further questions about the position. In anticipation of receiving a return call, have a list of intelligent questions prepared.

Two weeks later, if you haven't heard news of a final decision, drop a friendly e-mail or another follow-up call.

Follow up every two weeks until a decision has been made. Don't be afraid of being a pest. It's acceptable for your potential hirer to know that you are seriously interested in the job. You are competing for a position, and employers reward tenacity.

If the decision is delayed because the hiring manager is continuing to interview candidates, your determination and impeccable follow-up activity will keep you on the top of the list for consideration.

Return HomeTop
Job Search Basics
Choosing the Best
Résumé Format
Negotiation Techniques
In Focus
Job Search Basics
Choosing the Best Résumé Format
The Importance of Follow-up
Negotiation Techniques


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