[Solution] After the Interview
Created at:
Author: Emily Carter
The job search doesn't end with the interview. After your interview, be sure to follow up with the appropriate correspondence and contact your references if necessary.
What guidelines should you follow when sending a thank-you letter? Check all that apply.
- Send your letter immediately after the interview
- Include questions you forgot to ask in your interview
- Use a memo format
- Avoid worn-out phrases
- Refer to the date of the interview
View Explanation
A thank-you letter shows that you really want a job and that you are qualified for it. Send your letter immediately after the interview and refer to the interview date. Avoid worn-out phrases such as Thank you for taking the time to interview me.
Read the scenario, and answer the question.
You have just completed a successful interview for a management position. You need to contact your references and inform them that they might be asked for a recommendation.
What information should you give your references so that they can provide the best possible recommendation?
- The contact information of your prospective coworkers
- The salary expectations and work hours
- A description of the position and the name of company
View Explanation
After your interview, alert your references that they may be contacted by a prospective employer. To provide the best possible recommendation, your references need specific information. Provide them with the name of the company and a description of it. Also, include a thorough description of the position and its requirements.
Read the scenario, and answer the question.
Enrique interviewed for a copyeditor position 6 days ago. He decides to write a follow-up e-mail to ask how the decision process is going. He composes a first draft, but he knows that he will need to make some revisions.
To Whom It May Concern:
My interview last week was enjoyable. Thank you. I am still interested in the job. In fact, I really, really need a job in the next week. I haven't heard anything from you or the human resources representative, and I am wondering what the holdup is. I'm very eager to know your decision, so if you could hurry things up, I would greatly appreciate it. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Enrique Heller
Choose one possible revision suggestion for the previous follow-up letter.
- Avoid sounding discourteous and desperate
- Include a line that demands to know when they will be contacted
- Include statements that will force the employer to contact them
View Explanation
A follow-up letter inquires courteously about the status of the position but does not sound angry or desperate. Be mindful of your tone, and keep the letter's contents professional.
Examples of Effective Post-Interview Communications
Professional Thank-You Letter
Dear Ms. Rodriguez:
Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the Project Manager position on May 15. Our conversation reinforced my enthusiasm for the role and for XYZ Company's innovative approach to client solutions.
I was particularly impressed by your team's collaborative work environment and the emphasis on continuous improvement. My experience managing cross-functional teams and implementing agile methodologies aligns perfectly with what you described.
I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team. Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional information.
Sincerely,
Michael Chen
Appropriate Follow-Up Email
Subject: Follow-up on Marketing Coordinator Interview - Jamie Smith
Dear Mr. Thompson:
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my interview for the Marketing Coordinator position on June 3rd.
I remain very interested in the opportunity to join your marketing team and contribute to ABC Company's digital campaigns. During our conversation, I was especially excited about the upcoming product launch you mentioned.
I understand you mentioned the team would be making a decision by mid-June. I'm wondering if you have an update on the timeline or if you need any additional information from me.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
Jamie Smith
Post-Interview Timeline Recommendations
| Communication | Timing | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Thank-you note/email | Within 24 hours of interview | Express gratitude, reinforce interest, address any missed points |
| Reference notification | Immediately after interview if references might be contacted | Alert references, provide position details |
| Status inquiry | 1-2 weeks after interview (or after stated decision timeline) | Politely inquire about status, reaffirm interest |
| Final follow-up | 2-3 weeks after interview if no response | Final check before moving on, leave door open |
