How to write a follow up email after an interview

You may have just had an interview, or you may be waiting to hear from the hiring manager for an interview you attended a while back. In either situation, you can send a follow-up email to show your interest in the position and demonstrate professionalism.  

You may also want to send an email to stay in touch with someone you met during the interview process.  

Preparing a well-crafted email can help you create a lasting impression and stand out from other job seekers. We look at various aspects to pay attention to, such as the timing to send the email and the structure and content of the message. 

Table of contents:  

• When should you send a follow-up email after a job interview? 

• Sample follow-up email based on different interview scenarios 

• Best follow-up email templates to get responses 

• How to write a follow-up email after the interview? 

• Best practices for writing a follow-up email after an interview   

• Why are follow-up emails important? 

• Bottom line

• FAQs

When should you send a follow-up email after a job interview?   

At the end of the interview, ask the hiring manager when you can expect to hear back from them. If you forget, you can include this question in your follow-up email. 

Send your first follow-up email within one to two days after the interview—ideally the next morning—so they see it when they start their day. Avoid sending it on the same day, as the hiring manager may be busy with other interviews. 

If they mentioned a specific decision timeline or next steps, wait until that period has passed before following up again. If you haven’t heard back after a week or more beyond their stated timeline, sending another polite follow-up email shows continued interest without seeming overly persistent. 

If a long time has passed with no response, you can send a final follow-up email expressing your interest while also inquiring about any updates. If they confirm that your application was unsuccessful, thank them for their time and consideration and mention that you’d like to stay in touch. If your application is still under review, decide whether you want to wait or pursue other opportunities. 

Sample follow-up email based on different interview scenarios   

Here are a few examples of different messages you can use as a guide to craft your own. 

Follow-up email after job interview 

Here's a follow-up email after an interview sample you can use: 

Subject line: Thank you for the interview opportunity 

Dear Mr Lee, 

Thank you for your time yesterday. It was great to speak to you about the sales director role. I enjoyed connecting with you and learning more about the position and company. As we discussed during the interview, I'm attracted to the collaborative and supportive company culture. I'm confident I'm the right fit for the role, given my skills in building customer relationships and experience crafting successful sales strategies. 

Please let me know if there's anything else I can send to enhance my application. I look forward to hearing from you in the coming two weeks. 

Thank you, 

Abdul Azman 

Follow-up email after interview with no response 

If you haven't heard back from the interviewer, send a concise email to ask for more information without sounding overly eager.  

You should only send this email if you haven't heard back two weeks after the interview.  

Here's a sample follow-up email when you haven't heard back from the interviewer: 

Subject line: Checking in RE: mobile app developer role 

Dear Ms Nurin, 

I hope you're well. I'm checking in as you mentioned that you'd be making the final recruitment decision for the mobile app developer role by 10 January. 

Please let me know if you have an update and if there are any additional details I can provide to assist in the decision-making process. 

 Best, 

Jaslyn Chan 

Follow-up email to your previous conversation 

After sending an email, you may need to follow up if you haven’t received a response. Sending a follow up email after the interview is a great way to show continued interest while being professional and considerate of the hiring manager’s time. 

When following up, reference your previous email and acknowledge that they might have been busy. Politely ask if they had a chance to review or consider your message. To add value, share something new, such as a relevant resource, updated information, or clarification on your initial request. 

Restate your main ask and make it easy for them to respond. If appropriate, propose a specific next step, such as scheduling a meeting or confirming a decision. 

For example: 

Subject: Following Up on My Interview for the Marketing Analyst Role 

Dear Sarah, 

I wanted to follow up on my previous email regarding my interview for the Marketing Analyst position at BrightTech on January 15. I understand things may be busy on your end, and I truly appreciate the time you and your team took to meet with me. 

I remain very excited about the opportunity to contribute to BrightTech’s digital marketing initiatives, particularly in optimising ad campaigns with data-driven insights—something we discussed during our conversation. I wanted to check if there are any updates on the hiring process or if you need any additional information from me. 

Additionally, I recently came across an industry report on emerging trends in PPC optimisation, which reminded me of our discussion on BrightTech’s approach to campaign performance tracking. If you're interested, I'd be happy to share the link. 

Please let me know if there’s anything else I can provide. I’d love to hear any updates when it are convenient for you. If a decision is still in progress, I completely understand and can check back at a later time. 

Looking forward to your response. 

Best regards, 
Jessica Tran 
[email protected] 
(555) 123-4567 

Final follow-up email 

If you still haven’t received a response after your follow up email after interview, sending a final reminder is a professional way to close the loop. Acknowledge their busy schedule while reminding them of your initial request. 

Highlight why their response is important for your next steps and politely mention any deadlines or reasons for this being your last follow-up. Keep it respectful and open-ended, offering flexibility in case they prefer to discuss it later or direct you to someone else. 

Example final follow-up email after interview 

Subject: Final Follow-Up on Marketing Analyst Interview 

Dear Sarah, 

I wanted to send one final follow-up regarding my application for the Marketing Analyst role at BrightTech. I understand things get busy, and I truly appreciate your time. 

I’m still very interested in the position and wanted to check if there are any updates. If the hiring process is still ongoing, I’d love to stay in consideration, but I also understand if decisions have already been made. 

If it’s easier to discuss this later, or if there’s someone else I should reach out to, please let me know. I’d appreciate any insights you can share and remain available if you need anything from me. 

Looking forward to your response. 

Best regards, 
Jessica Tran 
[email protected] 
(555) 123-4567 

Follow-up email to stay in touch  

After sending your email after the interview, it’s a good idea to stay connected with the hiring manager or recruiter, even if you didn’t get the job. This helps keep the door open for future opportunities. When sending an interview follow-up to maintain contact, express gratitude for their time and insights.   

Mention something valuable you learned from your conversation or an update related to your discussion. Keep it brief and professional while showing genuine interest in staying in touch. 

Here’s an example:  

Subject: Thank You – Let’s Stay in Touch 

Dear Michael, 

I really enjoyed our conversation during my interview for the Product Designer role at InnovateX. It was great learning about your team’s approach to user-centered design and the exciting projects you’re working on. 

While I understand the team went in a different direction this time, I truly appreciated the opportunity to connect. I’d love to stay in touch and follow InnovateX’s work—especially in UX research, which we discussed during my interview. 

If there are any future openings that align with my skills, I’d be happy to explore them. Wishing you and your team continued success, and I hope our paths cross again soon! 

Best regards, 
Alex Rivera 
[email protected] 
(987) 654-3210 

Best follow-up email templates to get responses  

A well-crafted follow up email after interview can help keep you on the hiring manager’s radar and improve your chances of receiving a response. Below are five distinct and professional email templates suited for different follow-up situations. 

1. Formal thank you follow-up email template 

If you want to keep things professional and structured, this email helps you express gratitude while reaffirming your interest in the role. 

Subject: Thank You for the Opportunity 

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], 

I appreciate the opportunity to interview for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and the time you took to share insights about the role and team. Our conversation about [specific topic discussed] reinforced my enthusiasm for the position, and I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your team. 

If there’s any additional information I can provide to support my application, please let me know. I look forward to any updates regarding the next steps and appreciate your time and consideration. 

Best regards, 
[Your Name] 

2. Informal follow-up email template 

If the conversation felt casual and you want to keep that tone in your follow-up, this email makes it feel natural while still being professional. 

Subject: Quick Follow-Up After Our Interview 

Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], 

It was great connecting during my interview for the [Job Title] role. I really enjoyed learning more about the team and how [Company Name] is approaching [specific project or topic discussed]. Our discussion made me even more excited about the opportunity. 

Just wanted to check in and see if there were any updates regarding the hiring process. I understand things can get busy, so no rush—just looking forward to hearing back when the time is right. 

Thanks again, and I hope to speak soon! 

Best, 
[Your Name] 

3. Short Follow-Up Email Template 

If you don’t want to overcomplicate things and just need a quick check-in, this one gets straight to the point. 

Subject: Following Up on [Job Title] Interview 

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], 

Just wanted to follow up after the interview for the [Job Title] position. I appreciate the chance to speak with you and your team and remain very interested in the role. 

Would love to know if there are any updates on the hiring process. Please let me know if you need anything else from me. 

Looking forward to your response. 

Best, 
[Your Name] 

4. Long follow-up email template 

If you want to make a stronger case for why you're a great fit or add value to the conversation, this email gives you room to do that without being too lengthy. 

Subject: Checking In on Next Steps – [Job Title] Interview 

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], 

I wanted to reach out as a follow-up after interview for the [Job Title] position. I truly appreciate the time you and the team spent discussing the role, and I enjoyed learning more about how [Company Name] is driving success in [industry or specific topic discussed]. 

Since our interview, I’ve been thinking about how my experience in [specific skill or project] could contribute to [Company Name’s] initiatives. I would love the opportunity to bring [mention a skill, idea, or insight] to your team and help support [specific company goal or project]. 

If there are any updates on the hiring process or additional materials I can provide, please let me know. I look forward to hearing more when the time is right and appreciate your time and consideration. 

Best, 
[Your Name] 

5. Post-rejection follow-up email template 

Getting rejected doesn’t mean the door is closed forever! If you want to keep a good relationship with the company for future opportunities, this email helps you do that. 

Subject: Thank You and Staying in Touch 

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], 

I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the opportunity to interview for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. While I understand that another candidate was selected, I truly appreciate the chance to connect. 

I’d love to stay in touch and keep up with the exciting work your team is doing. If any future opportunities arise that align with my background, I’d be more than happy to explore them. 

Thank you again for your time and consideration. Wishing you and your team continued success! 

Best, 
[Your Name] 

How to write a follow-up email after the interview? 

Follow these steps to craft a winning follow-up email after the interview that keeps you on the hiring manager’s radar. 

1. Create a clear email subject line 

First, decide on an email subject line that captures the hiring manager’s attention. If you’re sending an email after an interview, consider subject lines like “Thank you for your time” or “Interview follow up email.” If you know multiple candidates were interviewed for the role, you can include your name and interview details, such as “Nadia Ali – Re: Interview on 15 May at 4 PM.” 

If you're sending a follow-up after the interview because you haven’t heard back within the expected timeframe, use subject lines like “Checking in,” “Following up on my application,” or “Status update on my interview.” It's best to reply directly to an existing email thread with the hiring manager to keep the conversation connected. 

2. Begin with a professional greeting 

By this stage, you may be on first-name terms with the interviewer or recruiter, especially if you've exchanged several emails or met in person. In this case, addressing them by their first name is acceptable. Otherwise, maintain formality by using their title and surname. 

For example: 

• Casual: “Dear Sarah,” 

• Formal: “Dear Mrs. Lim,” or “Dear Mr. Balakrishnan,” 

3. Write a concise body paragraph 

The body of your email after the interview should: 

• Express gratitude – Thank the interviewer for their time and consideration. 

• Reiterate your interest – Show enthusiasm for the role and company. 

• Mention a key takeaway – Reference something specific from the interview to personalise your message. 

For example: 
"Thank you again for sharing insights into the team’s upcoming projects. Our discussion about [specific topic] made me even more excited about the possibility of contributing to [Company Name]." 

Maintaining a professional and positive tone is crucial. Avoid unnecessary small talk—be clear about the purpose of your message and keep it relevant. 

4. Have a strong closing 

As you close your interview follow-up, include a clear call to action. For example, you could ask when to expect a response or if they need additional documents. 

Examples of closing lines: 

• “I’d love to know if there are any updates on the hiring process.” 

• “Please let me know if there’s anything else I can provide to support my application.” 

• “Looking forward to hearing from you when the time is right.” 

End your email with a professional sign-off: 

• “Best,” 

• “Best regards,” 

• “Thank you,” 

Use your full name in your signature to avoid confusion, especially if another applicant has the same first name. 

Knowing how to write a follow-up interview email helps you stand out and show professionalism. When done right, your interview follow-up email can reinforce your qualifications and leave a strong impression on the hiring team. 

Best practices for writing a follow-up email after an interview   

Sending a well-crafted follow up email after the interview helps you stand out and keeps you on the hiring manager’s radar. Here are some tips on following up after an interview the right way: 

1. Send it within 24–48 hours – A timely interview follow up email shows enthusiasm and professionalism. 
2. Express gratitude – Thank the interviewer for their time and insights. 
3. Keep it concise and professional – Avoid unnecessary details and get to the point. 
4. Reiterate your interest – Briefly mention what excites you about the role and company. 
5. Politely inquire about the next steps – Ask about the hiring timeline without sounding pushy. 
6. Be professional yet warm – Keep the tone formal but approachable. 
7. Keep it short – A follow-up should be brief and to the point. 
8. Show enthusiasm without being pushy – Reiterate your interest, but don’t pressure them to respond. 
9. Stay patient – If they provide a timeline, wait for it to pass before following up again. 
10. End with a clear call to action – Offer to provide any additional information they may need. 

A well-structured email after the interview reinforces your enthusiasm and can improve your chances of moving forward in the hiring process. 

Why are follow-up emails important?

Here are some reasons why sending follow-up emails might be important: 

1. Shows your enthusiasm for the role 

Sending a follow-up email demonstrates that you're a serious applicant and emphasises your continued interest in the position and company. You can show that you're willing to go the extra mile to secure the role. Your email can also communicate that your job search is ongoing and that other companies may want to hire you. 

Employers also like follow-up emails because they show that the job seeker is proactive, organised, and detail-oriented. The quality of your follow-up message may influence their hiring decision.  

It could be a deciding factor between two equally qualified applicants. Even if the company doesn't hire you for the role, sending a follow-up email can keep your application on the radar of hiring managers.  

They may be more likely to remember you and consider you for other suitable positions when future opportunities arise. 

2. Quickens the decision-making process 

Let's say, for example, that you attended an interview a month ago, but you've still not heard back from the hiring manager. You may have received offers from other companies but can't decide whether to continue waiting for a response or accept a job offer. Sending a follow-up email can help you take control of the job search process.  

There can be many common reasons why you have not heard back from the hiring manager. The recruitment process can be lengthy because companies work to hire the most suitable person for the role and company culture. They want to avoid making a costly hiring mistake.  

The hiring manager may decide to review your resume and cover letter and discuss your interview responses. Sending an email can help you understand where they are in the decision-making process. 

The hiring manager may have told you that you can expect to hear back after a certain period. If you haven't had a response, it's best to follow up so that you can make informed decisions about your job search. Think about how interested you are in the position and if you're willing to wait for the decision or accept another offer instead. 

3. Demonstrates professionalism 

A follow-up message helps you remain professionally connected with the hiring manager or potential employer. This makes it easier for you to contact them for another opening in the future. Maintaining positive relationships with hiring managers is essential to building your professional network.   

For example, if the hiring manager moves to another company, they may offer you a role there. Research shows that 70% of jobs don't appear publicly on job sites, and nearly 80% of hiring comes through personal and professional connections. 

4. Ask additional questions 

You may have missed asking the best questions during the interview, such as how the interview process works. Or you may want to clarify some questions or concerns after reflecting on the interview.  

You can ask these questions in your follow-up email. For example, you may want to know more about the rounds of interviews you'll need to go through or check if you need to submit additional application materials. 

Bottom line

Taking the time to craft a strong follow up email after the interview shows initiative and can leave a lasting impression. Employers appreciate proactive and professional candidates, so don’t hesitate to follow up. Using these tips, you can confidently navigate the hiring process and improve your chances of landing the job. 

FAQs 

Here are answers to common questions about follow-up emails.

1. What should you say in a follow-up email after an interview? Thank the interviewer for their time. Mention that you're interested in the role and keen on working for that company. You can also ask any additional questions about the interview process, role, or company that you didn't get to ask during the interview. Offer to keep in touch if you feel you connected with them during the interview.
2. How long should you wait after an interview to follow up? It's best to drop a thank-you note within 24 hours of the interview. If you don't hear back from the interviewer regarding the outcome of your application within the time frame they specified, it's good to send a second follow-up email.
3. How do you politely ask for an update after an interview? Specify the role you applied for, and mention that you would like to check the application's status. Add that you're happy to submit additional documents to help with the decision-making process.
4. Is four days too soon to follow up after an interview? It's too soon if you're asking for the interview outcome. You can first send a thank-you email and wait until the time frame the interviewer gave you has elapsed.
5. Is it normal to wait two weeks after an interview? Yes, some companies have a long hiring process. You can reach out after two weeks if the company hasn't responded to you with the outcome.
6. How long should you wait to follow up after an interview? 
   Wait 48 hours to send a thank-you email, and if you don’t hear back within the timeline they mentioned, follow up after a week or so. 
7. How do you politely ask for an interview result?  Send a professional follow up email after the interview, thanking them for their time and reiterating your interest in the role. Politely ask if there are any updates on the hiring process and if they have a timeline for a decision. You can also mention that you’re happy to provide any additional information they may need.