The Art of the Follow Up Part 1

This is the first of two posts relating to the followup. Part 2 is more in depth with details and examples.

The follow up to an interview, be it an informational or job interview, is perhaps more important than the interview itself and can determine becoming employed or not by demonstrating your interest, enthusiasm, and professionalism.  The follow up can yield the edge to get the job offer over others who interviewed.  The process actually begins during the interview by being proactive and is a strategic part of the search process. 

If in a job interview, at the end ask the potential employer when he expects to make the hiring decisions by using these techniques but do not seem desperate.

1. Obtain the correct titles and names of all the people who interviewed you.
2. Write individual thank you notes within two business days. The letters can be the same. Always send a thank you letter, even if the job is not for you. Use the best medium to get to the interviewer.  In the letter, remind the interviewer why you are the best for the position and show appreciation for his interest.  Ensure there are no errors in the prose.
3. Do not stop job hunting.  
4. Follow up with a phone call to the employer within a week and continue to build rapport.
5. Do not place too much importance on one job.
6. Do not burn bridges should you not get the job.  Bring the interviewers into your network.

The informational interview is much along the same lines except the focus is not on a specific position but the industry.  Overall, after the interview the work is not complete.  Efforts after the interview is where the candidate really shines.