Follow-up: The Tip-the-Scale Job Search Step

Looking for job openings and job leads would seem to be the most critical step in the job search process for job seekers. But is it really?

Let me suggest that follow-up with a thank-you note or letter, at minimum, after networking or an informational interview or job interview is likely more important. Why? Because the vast majority of job applicants do NOT follow-up. The lack of this step, essential to the success of a job search, has been noted in reputable employer surveys over the years and in my own informal discussions with employers.

If you take the time to build relationships with individuals who gave their time and shared job leads, provided information and/or referrals, or actually interviewed you, you will absolutely stand out in the crowded job-search arena. The positive emotional connection that results from a simple thank you is key to being remembered and can often be the tip-the-scale factor in landing the job you really want.

So what is the hang-up? Why do so many job seekers drop the ball in this final leg of the job-search process? I have to shake my head when I hear job seekers explain that they are “too busy” to send a thank you. Too busy doing what? Sometimes the reason is confusion about what to say in a thank-you note. How about just, “Thank You, I enjoyed our conversation and got a lot out of it. I really appreciate your taking time to [fill in the blank about the connection activity and what specifically you gained of value].”

Keith Ferrazzi, internationally acclaimed speaker and author of Who’s Got Your Back and Never Eat Alone (one of my most favorite books), provides some tips for flawless follow-up in his blog post How to Surpass 95% of Your Competition with One Simple Gesture. Make the commitment to follow-up consistently and tip the Stand-Out-Candidate scale in your favor!

Cross-posted at Career Goddess Blog

Comments

[Andrea]

I wouldn't send a thank-you note after an interview because I want to be judged by my skills/qualifications, not my ability to brown-nose. However, if someone provided me with a lead or took time to help me when they weren't being paid to do so, I would be sure to send a thank you note.

[HotLena]

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[Scott Woodard]

Andrea,

A follow up note after an interview is reflective of your skills and qualifications. First of all, the note/letter should be more than a simple thanks. It should reinforce how your skills/quals meet their needs and why you're the perfect candidate for the position. It should also express enthusiasm for the opportunity. Finally, another reason to follow up after the interview is as Susan mentions, so many people won't. The letter, then, helps you stand out. Do you think you're the only one being interviewed for the position?

Scott

[Steve Krohn]

Susan, with out any doubt, you are 100% correct! The amount of follow-up or follow-thru is at best minimal, those who do far excel others. The only thing I might add is that I tell my clients that these notes should also be hand written. It is a lost art that never fails to make a positive impression. I do not allow claims of poor hand man ship as an excuse.

[Melissa]

I completely agree about the necessity of a thank-you letter. It's not about brown-nosing. Rather, it is about good manners. Thank you for that great reminder!

[Steve]

I suggest that it all depends. If it is a research meeting (I really don't like the term "informational interview" ... it's NOT an interview), then a sincere thank you note is just plain polite. This person has taken time out of their day for you. If it is a regular interview ... well, how do you feel? If it was a pleasant experience and you can think of something specific that you liked about the interview or the position or the company, then it makes sense. If all you're going to say is "thanks for the opportunity ... I really enjoyed meeting you ... I hope to hear from you soon" ... then forget it. Reminds me of the movie "The Baker Boys" ... you would just be parsley on the side of the plate. It would not get you any closer to any position.