How to Write an Interview Follow Up Email

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One highly effective method of securing a desired position includes sending a follow up email after an interview. By taking the time to research the proper way to write a follow up email, you can reiterate your credentials and interest in the job you have interviewed for. In this article, you can learn about the steps for writing an interview follow up email and review several samples of these emails.

What is an interview follow up email?

An interview follow up email is an email sent by an applicant to an employer once they have completed an interview. Following up with employers is a way to show gratitude, while also reminding the employer that you are excited to have the opportunity to work for their company. These emails can help establish you as a more worthy candidate, while also boosting your chances of getting a follow up interview or receiving a job offer. 

Common reasons for sending an interview follow up email

Here are some of the most common reasons you might send a follow up email:

Thank you follow up

This type of email is just a general thank you note to show the interviewer that you are thankful for the opportunity as well as any information you learned while interviewing.

In-depth follow up

This email is sent immediately following the interview to thank the interviewer for their time, to send any pertinent information you may have neglected to mention and to express your continued interest in the position. 

Second follow up

This type of email is sent to follow up with the employer as a request for an update on the position. You can find out whether they have hired someone yet, and if not, to urge them to consider hiring you for the position. 

Check-in/networking follow up

If you have not heard back from the employer in a reasonable time and feel like they may have opted to go with a different candidate, this email is sent to encourage them to contact you in the future for other potential positions. 

How to write an interview follow up email

Here are some steps for writing an effective interview follow up email:

1. First, choose a subject line

Your first step is to choose a subject line. This should be something that succinctly describes the contents of the email while also grabbing the attention of the addressee. 

Examples of a subject line:

  • It was great speaking with you!
  • Thank you so much!
  • I truly appreciate this opportunity!
  • Thank you for your time and guidance!
  • Thank you for your time, [Interviewer’s Name]
  • Following up on the [Position Title]

2. Second, choose an opening line

The next thing you need to do is choose an opening line. In general, your opening line may involve expressing your gratitude. However, this is not necessarily the only way to begin your email. Also, you may want to mention them by name, if possible. 

Examples of an opening line:

  • It was a pleasure meeting you.
  • I was very excited to meet with you today.
  • I wanted to follow up with you as soon as possible.

3. Third, express appreciation

Whether you decide to begin your letter by expressing appreciation or not, you need to express your appreciation early in the letter. This will let the interviewer know that you are grateful for the opportunity and are not taking it for granted. This will often give you a better chance of getting a second interview or even being considered for another position in the future. 

4. Fourth, reveal your motivation

Once you have greeted them and expressed appreciation, you then want to get to the point of the letter. For instance, if you are writing a simple thank you note, the point of the letter will be to remind them to contact you after you have thanked them. If you are sending the letter to provide them with more information, this will be the time to mention those details. Either way, this is the part of the letter in which you let them know what your intentions are. Additionally, this is also a great time to mention any information you have that can set yourself apart from other candidates. 

5. Fifth, choose your closing statement

Although it may not seem like an important detail, you should be sure to end your letter with a professional closing statement. 

Examples of a closing statement:

  • Warm regards,
  • Sincerely,
  • Best,
  • Regards,
  • With gratitude,
  • All the best,

Additionally, be sure to include your contact information. 

Interview follow up email examples

Here are some examples you can use as a guide when creating your own interview follow up email:

Thank you follow up email example

Subject line: Thank you so much!

Dear Mr. Green, 

It was a pleasure to meet with you today. I just wanted to thank you, once again for taking the time to meet me and I do hope to hear from you very soon. 

Warm regards,
Jessica McGovern
(555) 555-5555

In-depth follow up email example

Subject line: Thank you for your time and guidance!

Dear David,

I would like to first thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. Although we discussed my work history extensively, I neglected to mention that I do also have some management experience that I believe will help me in the Social Worker position. I truly believe that I would be an excellent fit for this role and our immediate rapport will make for successful collaborations moving forward. I look very forward to hearing back from you and please reach out if you have any particular questions or concerns.

Best regards,
Lucy Williams
(555) 555-5555

Second follow up email example

Subject line: Following up on the Research Analyst position

Dear Michael,

I hope all is well. I would like to thank you, once again, for meeting with me last week. I wanted to check in on the Research Analyst position. I realize you are very busy. However, I would love an opportunity to speak with you again and answer any questions you may have. I wanted to reiterate that I have leadership and management skills that I believe make me a great fit for this position. Please contact me at your earliest convenience. 

Warm regards,
Rebecca Burns
(555) 555-5555

Check-in/networking follow up email example

Subject line: Thank you for your time, Timothy!

Dear Timothy, 

It was truly a pleasure meeting with you to interview for the Marketing Manager opening. Although you have already filled that position, I wanted to let you know that I have a sincere interest in working with you. I will continue on my job search, but if you have any similar positions in the near future, I hope you keep me in mind. Feel free to contact me for anything in relation to positions in your company moving forward.

All the best,
Judy Mitchell
(555) 555-5555