What To Do After an Interview: 15 Tips Toward Interview Success
- Published
You’ve just wrapped up your job interview, now what?
While it might be tempting to just wait and hope for the best, what you do next actually matters a lot. Smart post-interview steps can improve your chances and help you stand out.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do after an interview, how to follow up properly, and 15 actionable tips to move closer to interview success.
What Is the Next Step After a Job Interview?
After a job interview, the next step is to show your professionalism, stay engaged, and plan for what’s next. This means:
- Sending a thank-you message
- Reflecting on the interview experience
- Practicing for future interviews
- And continuing your job search with confidence
Even if you nailed the interview, how you follow up can shape the final outcome.
4 Best Follow-Up Examples After an Interview
1. The Thank-You Note
A thank-you note is essential and can be sent within 24 hours of the interview. It’s a simple, yet powerful way to express gratitude.
Purpose: Show appreciation for the interviewer’s time and express continued interest in the role.
Example:
Subject: Thank You – [Your Name] Interview for [Job Title]
Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
I wanted to extend my sincere thanks for taking the time to meet with me yesterday about the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. It was a pleasure discussing the role and learning more about the innovative projects your team is working on.
I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills in [mention a specific skill] and believe I would be a great fit for the team. Please let me know if you need any further information from my side.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
2. The Follow-Up Note (After No Response)
If it’s been 7-10 days without any update, follow up politely. This shows you’re still interested and proactive.
Purpose: Politely inquire about the status of your application without sounding impatient.
Example:
Subject: Following Up – [Job Title] Interview
Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m following up on my interview for the [Job Title] position that took place on [Date]. I’m still very excited about the opportunity to join your team at [Company Name] and would love to know if there have been any updates regarding my application.
Please let me know if there’s any additional information you need from me.
Thank you again for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
3. The “Status Update” Follow-Up (After Receiving Another Offer)
If you’ve received another offer but still prefer the job you interviewed for, this is an excellent way to respectfully communicate the situation and express your continued interest.
Purpose: Gently communicate that you’re considering other offers while emphasizing your preference for their role.
Example:
Subject: Status Update – [Job Title] Interview
Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you again for the opportunity to interview for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I wanted to inform you that I’ve received another offer and will need to make a decision by [Date]. However, I remain very interested in your team and the exciting work you’re doing at [Company Name].
If there are any updates on your end, I’d appreciate it if you could let me know. I’m still very eager to contribute my skills to your team.
Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
4. The Request for Feedback Follow-Up
If you didn’t get the job, asking for feedback is a great way to show professionalism and a desire to improve. Keep it polite and open to learning.
Purpose: Learn from the experience and use the feedback for future interviews.
Example:
Subject: Request for Feedback – [Job Title] Interview
Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you again for the opportunity to interview for the [Job Title] position. While I’m disappointed to hear that I wasn’t selected, I truly appreciated meeting you and learning more about [Company Name].
If you have any feedback or suggestions regarding my interview or application, I would greatly appreciate it, as it would help me grow and improve for future opportunities.
Thank you again, and I wish you and your team continued success.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
How to Follow Up After an Interview
Here are 15 detailed steps you can take after your interview to boost your chances of getting the job and grow as a candidate, regardless of the outcome.
1. Inquire About Next Steps and Contact Details
At the end of the interview, make sure to request the hiring manager’s contact information and ask about the next steps in the process. This helps you understand the decision-making timeline. Instead of asking a general “What are the next steps?”, try asking more specific questions like, “How long do you expect the decision-making process to take?” or “Is there likely to be a second interview, and when will candidates be notified?”
2. Send a Thank-You Email
Send a thank-you email within 24 hours. It shows you’re respectful, interested, and keeps you in the interviewer’s mind. Mention something specific you appreciated and re-express your interest in the role.
3. Write Down Key Moments
Right after the interview, jot down questions you were asked and how you responded. This helps you track what went well, what didn’t, and how to prepare better next time.
4. Review Your Performance Honestly
- Did I clearly explain my experience and strengths?
- Was I confident in my tone and body language?
- Did I connect personally with the interviewer?
- Did I ask smart questions that show genuine interest?
Reflecting helps you improve. Use an AI Interview Assistant for feedback. Ready to level up your interview skills? Try our AI Interview Assistant today!
5. Highlight What Went Well
Even if you feel unsure about some answers, there are always positives to take away. Celebrate the fact that you landed the interview, showed up, presented yourself, and gained valuable experience.
6. Identify Gaps in Your Responses
- Were there any questions that caught you off guard?
- It’s okay! Use it as a chance to improve.
- Practice with our AI Questions and Answer Generator, which gives tailored questions based on your specific role, helping you prepare more effectively.
7. Update Your Job Tracker
Log your interviews with details like who you spoke to, the role, key points discussed, and follow-up dates. This helps you stay organised and shows your commitment.
8. Be Patient but Set a Reminder
If you haven’t heard back after 7-10 days, send a polite follow-up email. Setting a reminder helps you stay on top without the stress of remembering.
9. Continue Your Job Search
Keep applying, networking, and preparing. It maintains your momentum and helps avoid disappointment if the opportunity doesn’t work out.
10. Practice with a Mock Interview Tool
Interview skills improve with practice. Use our Mock Interview Practice platform to rehearse questions and answers in a realistic environment. You’ll receive feedback, build confidence, and refine your communication style over time.
11. Think of New Questions to Ask
Interviewers often give you a chance to ask questions at the end. Next time, go beyond the basics and ask something memorable. This shows you’ve done your homework and are truly interested. Need ideas?
12. Stay in Touch on LinkedIn
If the interview felt positive, and you had a good connection with the interviewer, consider sending them a LinkedIn connection request with a short, polite message. This keeps the door open for future opportunities and shows you’re someone who values professional relationships.
13. Keep Improving Your Resume
Use insights from your interview to update your resume. Maybe you talked about a project or skill that resonated well add it to your CV. Or perhaps you noticed keywords used in the job description that weren’t on your resume. Use those to optimise your chances for the next round.
14. Stay Positive and Take a Break
Job hunting can be exhausting. After every interview, give yourself a moment to breathe and reflect. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Whether it went well or not, you showed up and gave it your best and that counts.
Best Interview tips for success
1. Research the Company and Role
Before your interview, thoroughly research the company, its mission, and the role. This helps you align your answers with the company’s values and show you’ve done your homework.
Tip: Check recent news or press releases to stay updated on company projects.
2. Practice Common Interview Questions
Prepare for frequently asked questions like, “Tell me about yourself,” “Why should we hire you?” and “Describe a challenge you’ve overcome.” This helps you stay calm and focused.
Tip: Practice in front of a mirror or record yourself to improve clarity and confidence. For more, check out our “How to Introduce Yourself in an Interview” post.
3. Dress Professionally
Your outfit makes the first impression before you even speak. Aim for business casual or formal wear, depending on the company’s culture. It shows you respect the opportunity and boosts your self-confidence.
Tip: When in doubt, choose clean, well-fitted clothes in neutral tones.
4. Arrive Early (But Not Too Early)
Getting to your interview 10–15 minutes early gives you time to relax and observe the environment. Shows punctuality, professionalism, and lets you settle your nerves.
Tip: Don’t arrive too early—it may catch the interviewer off guard.
5. Show Enthusiasm and Positivity
Let your excitement about the role and company come through naturally. Employers want someone who’s not just qualified but also motivated.
Tip: Maintain a friendly tone, smile, and show curiosity about the role.
6. Listen Actively and Ask Smart Questions
Interviews are two-way conversations. Show genuine interest by listening carefully and asking thoughtful questions at the end. This shows you’re not only attentive but also seriously considering the opportunity.
Tip: Prepare 2–3 questions like “What does success look like in this role?”
Want to stand out? Prepare a few smart questions to ask the hiring manager. These show that you’re proactive and eager to learn.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do after finishing an interview?
Here are the 7–8 main things to do after an interview:
- Send a Thank-You Email – Within 24 hours, express gratitude and re-affirm your interest.
- Note Key Moments – Write down what was asked and how you answered.
- Reflect on Your Performance – Think about what went well and what could be better.
- Identify Gaps – Note tricky questions and prepare better responses for next time.
- Update Your Job Tracker – Add details like who you spoke with and next steps.
- Set a Follow-Up Reminder – If no response in 7–10 days, send a polite follow-up.
- Continue Your Job Search – Keep applying and networking while you wait.
- Stay Positive – Whether you get the job or not, treat it as valuable experience.
How should I respond after an interview?
The best way to respond is by sending a thank-you email within 24 hours. Keep it professional and brief. Thank the interviewer for their time, mention something specific from your conversation, and re-confirm your interest in the role. This leaves a positive impression and shows that you’re serious and thoughtful.
How to pass an interview?
Here are the key points on how to pass an interview:
- Research the Company – Understand their mission, values, services, and recent updates.
- Know the Role – Study the job description and align your skills with what they need.
- Practice Common Questions – Prepare answers for typical and role-specific questions.
- Use the STAR Method – Structure your answers with Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
- Dress Appropriately – Choose neat, professional attire that fits the company culture.
- Show Confidence and Positivity – Use clear speech, eye contact, and a calm tone.
- Ask Smart Questions – Show interest by asking about team goals, growth, or next steps.
- Follow Up – Send a thank-you email within 24 hours, showing appreciation and interest.
Is it okay to call HR after an interview?
Yes, it’s okay but emailing is usually better. If you haven’t heard back in 7–10 business days, sending a polite follow-up email is the most professional way to check in. If calling, keep it short and respectful. Avoid sounding impatient or pushy—just let them know you’re following up.
What are 5 tips for a successful interview?
Here are 5 tips for a successful interview:
- Research the Company – Know their services, mission, and recent news.
- Dress Professionally – First impressions matter, even in virtual interviews.
- Practice Your Answers – Especially for behavioural and role-related questions.
- Show Confidence – Use positive body language and speak clearly.
- Follow Up – Send a thank-you email to leave a strong final impression.
