The time after a job interview can be filled with anticipation. You believe the meeting went well and are eager to learn about the decision, leading to a significant question: should you call for an update? While the impulse to pick up the phone is strong, the answer is nuanced and requires careful consideration of professional etiquette. This guide will provide a clear path for navigating your post-interview communication strategy effectively.
The General Rule on Calling After an Interview
As a general guideline, placing an unsolicited phone call to a hiring manager after an interview is not recommended. This approach can be perceived as impatient or demonstrating a lack of respect for the interviewer’s demanding schedule. A hiring manager’s day is often filled with competing priorities, and an unexpected call can disrupt their workflow.
The hiring process is frequently more complex and time-consuming than candidates realize. Decisions often require input from multiple team members and departments, involving scheduling alignment and internal deliberations. A lack of immediate news does not necessarily indicate a negative outcome; it often just means the internal process is still unfolding. Patience during this stage is a professional courtesy that reflects well on your character and understanding of business operations.
The Best Immediate Follow-Up Method
The most effective and professional method for immediate follow-up is a thank-you email. This approach is preferred because it is non-intrusive, allowing the hiring manager to read and respond at their convenience. It also serves as a written record of your continued interest and professionalism. An email reinforces the positive impression you made during the interview.
Your thank-you email should be sent within 24 hours of the interview. Begin by expressing your sincere appreciation for their time and the opportunity to learn more about the role and the company. Reiterate your strong interest in the position, and briefly mention a specific topic from your conversation. This shows you were engaged and helps them recall your discussion. Conclude by expressing your excitement about the potential next steps, keeping the tone upbeat and professional.
This simple gesture can distinguish you from other candidates. It is a polished and respectful way to stay on the hiring manager’s radar. The key is to keep the message concise, personalized, and free of errors. Proofread it carefully before sending to ensure it reflects your attention to detail.
When Calling Might Be Appropriate
There are specific, limited exceptions to the no-call rule. The most common acceptable scenario is when a hiring manager has provided you with a clear timeline for their decision, and that date has passed by several business days without any communication. For instance, if they mentioned they would be in touch by the end of the week, waiting until the following Tuesday or Wednesday to make a polite inquiry is reasonable.
Another rare occasion where a call is acceptable is if the hiring manager explicitly invited you to call them. If they concluded the interview with a statement like, “Feel free to give me a call if you have any questions or want an update,” they have opened the door for that communication. In some traditional industries or professions, a follow-up call might even be considered standard etiquette. It is important to recognize these situations are exceptions.
How to Handle the Call Professionally
If you have determined that your situation fits one of the rare exceptions and a call is warranted, your execution must be professional and concise. Prepare what you are going to say beforehand to avoid rambling. When they answer, politely state your full name, the specific position you interviewed for, and the date of the interview to provide context.
Keep your reason for calling direct and brief. For example, you could say, “Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], this is [Your Name]. I interviewed for the [Position Title] role last [Day of the week]. You had mentioned that a decision might be made by this week, and I just wanted to briefly follow up and reiterate my strong interest in the opportunity.” This approach is respectful and gets straight to the point. The goal is to show continued enthusiasm, not to pressure them for an immediate answer, so keep the call under two minutes.
Interpreting Silence and Moving On
After you have sent a thank-you note and, if appropriate, made a polite follow-up call after a missed deadline, the ball is in the employer’s court. If you are met with continued silence, it is often a signal to shift your focus. Try not to take the lack of response personally. Companies, especially those dealing with a high volume of applicants, can be inefficient at communicating rejections.
The most productive response is to redirect your energy toward your ongoing job search. Dwelling on a single opportunity can cause you to miss out on other potential roles. Continue to apply for positions, network with contacts, and prepare for other interviews. Viewing each interview as a learning experience, regardless of the outcome, will help you maintain a positive and forward-looking mindset, which is beneficial for your long-term career success.