Interviews & Careers

How to Follow Up After an Interview

Learn when to follow up, what to say, and how to show interest without sounding pushy.

The best interview follow-up is brief, specific, and timed appropriately.

Send a thank-you first

Send a concise thank-you within one business day. Mention one useful detail from the conversation and reaffirm your interest.

Respect the stated timeline

When the interviewer gives a decision date, wait until that date has passed before asking for an update.

Keep the follow-up simple

Ask whether there is an update and whether the team needs anything else from you. One polite follow-up is usually enough.

Quick reply checklist

  1. Acknowledge the message or situation.
  2. State your answer or purpose clearly.
  3. Include only relevant context.
  4. End with a useful next step.
  5. Check names, dates, facts, and tone.

Ready-to-copy examples