Here's a stat that should motivate you: 91% of employers like receiving follow-up thank-you notes. Yet 57% of candidates don't send them.
The follow-up isn't just polite—it's strategic. And most people get it wrong.
The Follow-Up Timeline
After an Interview
- Thank-you email: Within 24 hours (ideally same day)
- Status check: 5+ business days after expected decision date
- Second follow-up: 1 week after first follow-up
After Cold Outreach
- First follow-up: 3-4 days after initial email
- Second follow-up: 4-5 days later
- Third follow-up: 5-7 days later
- Final attempt: 1 week later (breakup email)
Post-Interview Thank-You Template
Subject: Thank you - [Role Title] Interview
Hi [Name],
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today about the [Role Title] position. I enjoyed learning more about [specific topic discussed] and the team's approach to [challenge or project mentioned].
Our conversation reinforced my excitement about this opportunity. I'm particularly drawn to [specific aspect that aligns with your experience], and I believe my experience with [relevant skill/achievement] would allow me to contribute quickly.
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need any additional information. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Status Check Template (After Expected Timeline)
Subject: Following up - [Role Title] Interview
Hi [Name],
I hope you're doing well. I wanted to follow up on my interview for the [Role Title] position on [date].
I remain very interested in the opportunity and would love to know if there are any updates on the hiring timeline or if there's any additional information I can provide.
Thank you for your time.
Best,
[Your Name]
Cold Outreach Follow-Up Templates
Follow-Up #1 (Gentle Bump)
Subject: Re: [Original Subject]
Hi [Name],
I wanted to follow up on my email from [day]. I know your inbox is busy.
[One sentence restating your value proposition]
Would you have 10 minutes this week to connect?
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Follow-Up #2 (Add Value)
Subject: Re: [Original Subject]
Hi [Name],
I came across [relevant article/news about their company] and thought of our conversation. [Brief comment showing you understand their business]
I'd still love to discuss how my experience with [relevant skill] could help with [company goal].
Worth a quick call?
[Your Name]
Follow-Up #3 (The Breakup)
Subject: Should I close your file?
Hi [Name],
I've reached out a few times about [topic]. I haven't heard back, so I'm guessing the timing isn't right.
If that changes, I'd still love to connect. For now, I'll assume you're all set.
Best of luck with [relevant company goal],
[Your Name]
The "breakup email" often gets the highest response rate—people feel compelled to reply before you "give up."
When to Stop
After 3-4 follow-ups with no response, move on. Keep them in your network for future opportunities, but don't keep pushing.
If you're not hearing back from a company you really want, try finding a different contact there. Sometimes it's the specific person, not your approach.