One of the biggest stressors to anyone’s mental health during the job seeking process is the anxiety and other feelings that flood over you following a job interview. You completed the interview process and your potential employer says “We will get back to you with our decision!” Most job seekers stop at this point and wait for employers to reach out to hear if they got the job or not. The next steps are just as important as the interview itself and they will help you stand out among other applicants that may be applying for the same position, as well as help you feel more in control of the situation and your emotions.
Write a Thank-You Note
A thank-you note may be new to some job seekers, but this tip will always leave a lasting impression.
- Send a thank-you note within 24 hours of your interview. Handwritten letters are always best, but if you are in a time crunch, email works just as well.
- The content of the thank-you note is important. Let the employer know how grateful you are for the opportunity and their time. Mention different aspects about the interview experience and reiterate what really stands out to you about the position.
- Remind the employer why you believe you are qualified for the job and how you can be a great addition.
- Don’t forget to tailor the letter or email specific to the individual position that you are applying for.
Sample Thank You Letter to Employer
Ms. Deer:
Thank you so much for your time and the privilege of having an interview with you yesterday, December 11. The part-time sales position sounds both rewarding and challenging.
As mentioned during the interview, I have 8+ years of experience in the retail industry. Through my years of experience I’ve gained many skills, as well as an understanding of retail sales and exemplary customer service. I have in the retail industry in various positions from sales associate to assistant department manager. I think my education and work experience would complement Retail Sales Department Store. I enjoyed meeting Jack and Jill from the Sales team. They were very friendly and seem like great people to work with.
Thank you again for the opportunity to be considered for this position with Retail Sales Department Store. The interview reinforces my strong interest in becoming an employee of this company. I can be reached at (555) 555-5555 or by e-mail at justinedoe@website.com should you need additional information.
Sincerely,
Justine Doe
Follow up Email or Call
A follow up can be done either through email or by a phone call. To pick which one, consider how the employer has contacted you, through phone calls or by email. This shows you are a good communicator and would be an asset to their team.
- Be sure to wait 1-2 weeks after your interview before reaching out to the employer.
- A follow-up email or call should be short and to the point
- The follow up should be respectful and a friendly reminder about your interest in the position.
- If the employer told you they would let you know by a certain date do not follow up with them until they have reached out or the date has passed.
Sample Follow-Up Call to Employer
The purpose of these tips is to remind the employer why you would be a good fit for the position above all the other people who interviewed. Use these easy ways to set yourself apart from the others. Following these tips will not only help make you a more memorable applicant, but also alleviate some of the anxiety and mental health stressors the interview process put on you by placing you in a position of more control.
Did I leave out any important tips on communicating with a potential employer after an interview? Share your tips with me in the comments. I would love to hear what works for you!
About the Author
Lauren Furr, BA
Lauren Furr, a graduate from Westmont College, studied Psychology and received her Bachelor's degree in 2018. Lauren was a Vocational Volunteer at Sanctuary Centers for a year before she was hired on as a Career Development Specialist in May 2018. Through Sanctuary Centers’ Mental Health Inpatient and Outpatient Care programs and the Department of Rehabilitation, Lauren assists individuals with disabilities to achieve their vocational goals, whether it be helping them find meaningful employment or helping them become a more active member of the community through volunteer placement.
