How to Follow Up After a Job Interview (Templates + Timing)
The interview went well. Now what? Exact follow-up emails to send, when to send them, and when to stop.
The Follow-Up Is Part of the Interview
Most people think the interview ends when they leave the room. It doesn't. Your follow-up email is a chance to reiterate your interest, address anything you forgot to mention, and stand out from the candidates who don't bother.
Here's a stat worth knowing: 68% of hiring managers say a thank-you note influences their decision. But only 25% of candidates actually send one.
The Timeline
Within 24 hours: Send a thank-you email
Send this the same day or the next morning. Keep it short.
Template:
Subject: Thank you, [Role] interview
Hi [Interviewer Name],
Thank you for taking the time to talk with me about the [Role] position today. I really enjoyed learning about [specific detail from the conversation, like a project, challenge, or team dynamic].
Our conversation about [specific topic] made me even more excited about this role. I think my experience with [relevant skill or project] would let me contribute right away.
Looking forward to hearing about next steps. Happy to share any additional information if helpful.
Best, [Your Name]
Rules:
- Reference something specific. It proves you were paying attention.
- Keep it under 150 words.
- If you talked to multiple people, send each person their own version.
- Proofread it twice. Typos here are brutal.
1 week later: Check in (if you haven't heard back)
Subject: Following up on [Role] position
Hi [Name],
Wanted to check in on our conversation from last [day]. I'm still very interested in the [Role] and would love to hear if there are any updates on the timeline.
Happy to provide any additional info.
Best, [Your Name]
2 weeks later: Last follow-up
Subject: Re: [Role] position
Hi [Name],
I know the hiring process takes time, so I just wanted to check in one more time about the [Role] position. I'm still excited about the opportunity.
If the timeline has changed or the role has been filled, totally understand. I'd just appreciate a quick update when you have a chance.
Thanks, [Your Name]
After 2 weeks of silence: Move on
If you've sent 2-3 follow-ups and heard nothing, the answer is effectively no. Stop emailing. It won't help, and it might hurt your chances if another role opens up at the same company later.
Common Mistakes
- Sending it 10 minutes after the interview. Feels desperate. Wait a couple hours at least.
- Writing a novel. Nobody reads a 500-word thank-you. Three to five sentences. That's it.
- Being generic. "Thank you for the opportunity" is bland. Reference a real moment from the conversation.
- Following up too aggressively. One email per week maximum. Never call unless they asked you to.
- Adding them on social media right away. Wait until you get the job, or at minimum a second interview.
Don't Negotiate in the Follow-Up
The follow-up is not the place to talk about money. Wait for the actual offer. When it comes, our Salary Negotiation Tool generates scripts tailored to your situation.
Need Help With the Email?
Not sure if your thank-you note sounds right? Paste it into the Email Refiner. It'll catch tone issues, grammar problems, and awkward phrasing. Free, instant, no account.
Last updated: February 2026