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After countless hours spent perfecting your resume, applying for roles, and preparing for interviews, waiting around for a call can be frustrating. You might find yourself asking: “Should I follow up?” The answer is “it depends.” It’s important to follow up at the right time and in the right way to maintain a professional image. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

How Many Times Should You Follow Up After an Interview?

Set Realistic Expectations

When you leave an interview, it’s natural to feel anxious about the outcome. However, the recruitment process can be a long one, taking anywhere from 45 to 50 days. This timeframe includes resume screening, interviews, candidate evaluations, and necessary background checks. With so many moving parts, it’s important to have patience as the hiring team works through their decision-making process.

Follow-Up To-Do’s After an Interview

That said, there are some ways to get answers about the decision-making process. These include:

• Ask About Timelines: During the interview, ask about the expected timeline for the hiring decision. This information can help you determine when it’s appropriate to follow up. If they said a week, wait a week before you follow up.
• Send a Thank-You Note: One thing you can do after an interview is to send simple thank-you email within 24 hours. This shows your appreciation, keeps you top of mind, and reinforces your enthusiasm for the role.
• Follow-Up After the Deadline: If the timeframe given during the interview has passed and you haven’t heard back, send a follow-up email. Express your interest in the position and inquire about the status of the hiring process.
• Wait a Week Before Further Follow-Up: If you don’t hear back after your first follow-up, give it a week before reaching out again. This shows that you respect their time and are not overly aggressive.
• Know When to Move On: If four to five weeks pass without any response, it’s time to move on. The position has been filled or the decision has been put on pause.

What Not to Do After an Interview

After your interview, there are also some steps not to take, including:

• Rush to Follow Up: Avoid contacting the interviewer immediately after the interview or the next day, unless it’s to send a thank you note. Reaching out too soon comes off as impatient.
• Following Up Again and Again: After your initial follow-up email, avoid sending multiple messages or making several phone calls in a single day. This can appear pushy and reduce your chances of an offer.
• Show Up Unannounced: Don’t drop by the company or the interviewer’s office without an appointment. This is disruptive and reflects poorly on your professionalism.
• Burn Bridges: Even if you feel frustrated by the lack of communication, maintain professionalism in all communications. Rude or aggressive messages will have lasting effects on your reputation.
• Neglect Other Opportunities: While it’s natural to focus on a role you feel passionate about, don’t let other great opportunities pass you by. Stay proactive and continue applying to other jobs.

Get Help Navigating a Stressful Job Search

The uncertainty of job searching can be overwhelming. Let OneSource Staffing Solutions make it easier. We’ll help you polish your resume and interview skills, connect you with rewarding opportunities at leading employers, and keep you in the loop throughout the hiring process. If you’d like expert support so your next role is your dream job, contact our employment agency today!