Interview follow-up email examples

Here are several examples of follow-up emails you might use during the hiring process. Below, we will discuss when and how you should send each and tips for writing them.

1. Short interview follow-up email example

A short follow-up version may be most appropriate as a thank you email after a phone interview. In the short version, you’ll want to be concise:

2. Long interview follow-up email

In the long version, you have more opportunity to explain your skills in detail (although you’ll notice that this long version is still relatively short). This is appropriate after an in-person interview or other meaningful interaction during the hiring process.

3. Checking in email

If you haven’t heard back from a potential employer after your interview or after your post-interview follow-up, you can send a “checking in” email, ideally to the recruiter.

Keep it concise. Indicate that you’re looking for more information without being overeager:

• In the subject line, include the job title you interviewed for.
• Send this email to the recruiter. They are the most likely to be up-to-date on what’s going on in the hiring process.
• Keep it to one paragraph indicating that you are still interested in the job and looking for an update. Offer to provide additional information if they need it. Sign off with a thank you.

4. Staying in touch email

If you still haven’t heard back after checking in or you’ve learned that you didn’t get the job, you can still venture to stay in touch with the hiring manager.

Just like your checking-in email, this one is short:

• Send this email to the hiring manager. This person is probably at a senior level and could be a potential mentor if you’re looking to grow in this field.
• In your first paragraph, mention what about them you found interesting or inspirational.
• Limit to two paragraphs and include a proposed timeframe for a phone call or coffee meeting.