At this point in your career, you surely understand the importance researching, practicing and preparing for job interviews. You’ve learned the more preparation you put in, the better you’ll do in the hot seat. But how much do you think about the work you’ll put in after the interview is over? Professional follow-up is critical to show your enthusiasm for the position and to reinforce the idea you are their ideal candidate. These are the key elements that should be part of your post-interview follow-up strategy.

Follow-up Starts Before the Interview is Over

When you’re wrapping up your list of thoughtful questions for the hiring manager, make a brief closing statement. Concisely make the case you are the best person for the job; then ask the interviewer if there is anything about your experience that would make them hesitant to extend an offer. Finally, ask what the next steps will be.

After the hiring manager lets you know about their timeline and next steps, express your interest in the position again, and ask permission to follow up via phone or email. This will give you a framework for how to follow up appropriately, without getting too pushy.

Send a Thank-You Note

As soon as you get home from the interview, write a thank-you note to each person who met with you, and drop the note in the mail. Thank them for taking the time to meet with you, reiterate your interest and enthusiasm for the position and don’t forget to include any additional information you may have been asked to provide. A handwritten note will set you apart, but if there isn’t enough time in their timeframe to send a note via snail mail, an email is certainly appropriate.

Reach out After the Deadline Has Passed

If you were told you’d hear back in one week, resist the urge to pick up the phone before that time has elapsed. In fact, it’s best to wait 24-48 hours after the deadline has passed before reaching out. Hiring for professional IT positions can often take longer than expected. Do your best to be patient and don’t be a nuisance, which will turn off the hiring manager. While you do want to show enthusiasm, you don’t want to be overbearing and pushy.

If You Don’t Get the Job, Ask for Feedback

If you don’t receive an offer or a call back for the next round of personal interviews, you can try to collect feedback from the hiring manager. Not all hiring managers will respond to requests for feedback, but it’s worth the effort to ask. If you do receive feedback, use it to improve your approach on your next interview.

If you are an experienced IT professional seeking new opportunities and are ready to partner with a recruiter, reach out to PEAK Technical Consulting  today or submit your resume online to accelerate your search.

About PEAK

PEAK Technical Consulting has created connections with employers nationwide, where you can find projects and roles to make the most of your abilities and advance your career. Since 1968 PEAK has helped IT professionals find jobs that offer flexibility, challenges and rewards. We are committed to giving you the resources and support you need to build the career of your dreams.

Take a look at some of the IT jobs we offer:

• Software Developer
• Network Administrator
• UX Writer

If you are looking for employers and opportunities that will take your IT career to the next level and help you to achieve your goals, contact a PEAK recruitment expert today.