The Right Way to Follow Up Without Being Pushy

Let’s talk about the follow-up—because this is where many candidates drop the ball.

The interview doesn’t end when you log off Zoom or walk out the door.

Send a Thank-You Email (Yes, Really)

It sounds basic, but most people skip it. That’s a mistake.

A thank-you note isn’t old-fashioned. It’s effective.

Keep it short. One or two paragraphs max.

Say thank you. Mention something specific from the interview. Reaffirm your interest (if you're still interested).

No fluff. Just clarity and gratitude.

It shows maturity. It shows you care. And it helps you stand out.

Reflect Before You Obsess

After the interview, don’t spiral.

Don’t reread everything you said in your head. Don’t panic if they don’t respond in two days.

Instead, write down what went well. What you’d do differently. What questions stumped you.

This is how you grow.

Check In—But Don’t Chase

If they said they’d follow up by Friday and it’s Monday—send a polite check-in.

Something like:

“Hi [Name], just checking in regarding the [Job Title] position. I really enjoyed our conversation and remain very interested. Please let me know if there’s any update or anything else I can provide.”

Short. Respectful. Confident.

Don’t check in every day. Don’t send a novel. Don’t guilt-trip.

If you hear back, great. If not, that’s feedback too.

Keep Looking

No matter how well it went, never stop your search after one interview.

Hope is good. But momentum is better.

You can be excited about an opportunity without putting everything on hold for it.

The best candidates are the ones who keep going.

Rejection Isn’t the End

Didn’t get the job? It’s okay. Seriously.

Ask for feedback if you can. Some won’t give it—but some will. And it might help you improve.

Either way, thank them for the opportunity.

You’re building a reputation—even with people who say no.

And sometimes, a no now turns into a yes later.