How to send an effective follow-up email after a job interview

Since it’s not always clear how to write a follow-up email post-interview, we’ve got some tips to help you. In this article, our expert recruitment team will show you how to write an effective follow-up email and more importantly, how to win over recruiters through writing one.

Why write an interview follow-up email?

Interview follow-up emails are useful for several reasons.

Firstly, this method of follow-up shows the recruiters that you’re a motivated individual. It’s also the perfect opportunity to thank them for their hospitality and the quality of your interview. Finally, it’s a way to reiterate your enthusiasm for the position you are applying for.

Follow-up emails also allow you to remind the recruiters of your qualities by highlighting your interpersonal skills. Indeed, whether it is before, during or after the job interview, recruiters are always attracted to candidates who are good listeners and respect the company's values. These social skills are difficult to teach in the workplace.

Memorable candidates distinguish themselves from their competition. An especially good way to do this is by showing initiative and sending a follow-up email.

Tips for writing a strong interview follow-up email

To write an effective and impactful follow-up email, it's a good idea to take the following key pointers onboard and turn this gesture into an opportunity.

Firstly, always start by thanking the recruiter for taking the time to meet with you. Remember to reiterate how well your experience and skills align with the finance position you are seeking.

It’s also important to refer to the notes you took during the interview and the job description to select words that will catch the recruiter's attention. Use this opportunity to reiterate your interest in the position and your belief that you are the ideal candidate for the job.

Best practices for writing a follow-up email

To write an effective follow-up email, mention the title of the post you are applying for in the first paragraph. The first paragraph is also a great place to thank the recruiter for the time they set aside to interview you and to express your keen interest in the job advertised and their business overall.

In the next paragraph, include your interests, goals and prior experience. Try to relate them all to key questions asked in the job interview. Remain clear and concise without rambling on.  

Then, in the final paragraph, remind the recruiter what makes you stand out from other candidates and what you aim to bring to this new opportunity.

Finally, finish the follow-up email by saying that you look forward to hearing their response and that you are available to answer any additional questions they may have. Being available, motivated and open-minded is bound to work in your favour.

Increase your chances of landing a job with an interview follow-up email

Despite sending an interview follow-up email, you still haven’t received a response from the recruiter. Maybe they’re busy and haven’t yet had the time to contact you, caught up in the complex recruitment process. Or maybe they didn’t see your email because of a computer glitch.

Feel free to send a reminder email. Two emails is better than one after all. It wouldn’t do any harm to send another. In fact, it would demonstrate your enthusiasm for the post.

And if you are not selected, remain professional. Offer to stay in touch with the recruiter. This will show them your interest in the company and your positive attitude.

While it is not always easy to get an interview, it is also not always easy to get the job. However, candidates who choose Fed Finance's job placement service stand a better chance of securing a job that suits them.

To discover more about this topic or get help finding a job in the finance and accounting sector, contact our Fed Finance team.