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How to Follow Up After an Interview

How to Follow Up After an Interview

Without Sounding Desparate

SCALIS EarlyCareers
16 Apr

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How to Follow Up After an Interview (Without Sounding Desperate)

You aced the interview—or at least you think you did. Now comes the part that’s equal parts exciting and awkward: the follow-up.

Too many candidates either ghost the process or go overboard with messages that feel needy. The sweet spot? Following up with confidence, clarity, and class.

Here’s how to do it right:

1. Send a Thank-You Email Within 24 Hours

This is a must—not just for etiquette, but to reinforce your interest.

Keep it short, sincere, and specific.
Mention something memorable from the conversation.
Reaffirm your enthusiasm for the role.

Example: "Thank you again for taking the time to speak with me today. I really enjoyed learning about your upcoming product launch and the team’s collaborative approach. The role seems like a great fit, and I’m even more excited about the opportunity to contribute."

2. Use the Follow-Up Window Strategically

If they gave you a timeline (“we’ll get back to you next week”), respect it. But if you haven’t heard anything after that window closes:

Wait 2–3 business days after the expected response date.
Send a brief, professional note checking in.

Example: "Just wanted to follow up on our recent conversation about the [Job Title] role. I remain very excited about the opportunity and would love to know if there’s anything else you need from me as you move forward."

3. Don’t Apologize for Following Up

Confidence > hesitation. Avoid phrases like:

“Sorry to bother you…”
“I know you’re probably busy but…”
“Just checking in again…” (especially repeatedly)

Instead, be direct but polite. You’re following up because you’re invested—and that’s a good thing.

4. Add Value When Possible

If you come across something relevant—an article, idea, or quick thought based on the interview—consider sending it in your follow-up.

It shows engagement, initiative, and long-term thinking.
Just make sure it’s aligned with the role or conversation you had.

Example: "Following up—and thought you might find this UX research study we discussed useful. It made me think more about your team’s user testing process."

5. Know When to Let Go

If you’ve sent a thank-you, a follow-up after the stated timeline, and maybe one final nudge with no response...

Take the silence as a sign to move on with grace.
Don’t keep following up weekly. That’s when persistence can cross into desperation.
Stay professional—you never know when another opportunity will open at the same company.

The unfortunate reality to the jobseeking process is that not all employers have a strong handle on their recruiting and interviewing efforts to close the loop when they don’t want to move any further in the process with you. While extremely frustrating, and not at all what we encourage at SCALIS, some employers will not get back to you. Keep your chin up and try to keep a positive outlook on your entire process.

My Final Thoughts

Following up after an interview isn’t about proving your worth—it’s about reinforcing your professionalism. When done right, it keeps you top of mind and shows you care without being clingy.

Confidence. Courtesy. Timing. That’s the formula. Stick to it, and you’ll follow up like a pro!

Join SCALIS

💡 Looking for internship opportunities or early career roles right now? SCALIS connects job seekers with top employers who are actively hiring.

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In this episode of Career Hack, Brandon Amoroso speaks with Alexa Mikhail, a senior health and wellness reporter at Fortune Well. They discuss the challenges of entering the workforce, the importance of networking and references, and how to ask the right questions during interviews. Alexa shares her personal journey from being laid off at CNN to finding her passion at Fortune, emphasizing the need for flexibility and intentionality in job applications. The conversation also touches on career growth, the significance of learning from experiences, and the importance of enjoying the journey.

Here’s What You’ll Learn:

Navigating early career challenges can be overwhelming.
Finding the right fit in job applications is crucial.
Networking and references play a significant role in job searches.
Asking the right questions in interviews can set you apart.
Career growth requires self-reflection and proactive communication.
Your 20s are a time for exploration and learning.
It's okay to pivot and change career paths.
Building relationships can provide valuable support in your career.
Understanding company culture is essential for job satisfaction.
Enjoying the process is just as important as achieving goals.