Job search can be a lonely and unrewarding journey. When it comes to interviews, there is a massive wave of emotions involved. If the interview has gone well, you have high hopes and dreams of how the next few weeks are going to be. You can't stop it. To protect yourself 1. Send the recruiter/hiring manager a message thanking them for their time the same day 2. In a timeframe of 2 weeks, follow up 3 times 3. If you don't get a response or they are hanging you dry - it's time to let go. Your energy isn't worth it.

Example of a Negative way of approaching : Dear [Recruiter/Interviewer/HR], I applied for the [Job Title] position few days ago and haven't heard back. I want to know why there's been no response. This lack of communication is quite frustrating. I expect an update on my application status as soon as possible. If you are not interested, please inform me immediately so I can consider other opportunities. Best, XYZ Example of a Positive way of approaching : Dear [Recruiter/Interviewer/HR], I hope you're well. I’m following up on my application for the [Job Title] position submitted on [Date]. I’m very interested in this opportunity and would appreciate any updates on the status of my application. Thank you for your time. Best regards, XYZ

So here is the thing, which I have seen by one of my candidates and I liked it. It was different, I tell you that! We had scheduled an online interview with the client and candidate. The interview really went well on top of that, this candidate actually sent an email to all of us, thanking everyone for their time. For following up, he called me after 3 days to check the update. It is safe to say between 3 to 5 working days as a gap between your interview and your first follow up is good.

A polite follow up after an interview or initial HR phone screen can make the world of difference; if the VP of HR has screened 5 candidates, 4 of who do not have a follow up email, but you do, it is such an easy way to stand out. Short & sweet is the way forward, if you are interviewing for roles, try a follow up email that briefly: 1. Thanks them for their time 2. Re-affirms your interest in the role (interviewing is a two way process!) 3. Provides your availability for next steps So simple, yet so effective.

Recommended follow up timeline after an interview: 1st email, within 48 hours- Expressing gratitude for the opportunity + Thanking interviewer for insights shared about the organization & its vision. 2nd email, after one week- This reaffirms your interest in the opportunity and it also allows time for the company to respond. You can also ask for a date for an expected response. 3rd email, after 15-20 days: If there is no response till now, remind them of the passed deadline. Convey that you’re still interested and ask if they’d like you to provide any additional information.