How to Follow Up After an Interview and What to do if Rejected

Transitioning to a new career or starting your first career can be both exciting and stressful. The process can feel overwhelming between applying for new jobs, interviewing, and juggling multiple applications. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, there's a sense of possibility as you chart your career path. While actively searching for a new job, it's essential to consider how to follow up after each interview.  

"Every rejection is a redirection." – Mel Robbins. While rejection can be hurtful at the moment, please take it as a learning opportunity and reflect on the next steps before moving on to the next path. 

While you may hope to land the first job you apply for, that's not always how it goes. This article shares tips to consider as you navigate the interview process. 

Have confidence in your skills and the value you can bring to the organization, but also practice patience. Take time to celebrate your small wins. If you made it through multiple interviews but missed out on a job offer, remember that the company saw value in your skills and expertise; it might not have been the right match this time. Stay adaptable and trust that the right opportunity will come. 

Now that you've completed your interview, what should you do next while waiting to hear whether you were successful? 

Interview follow-up 

Your first step after the interview is to send a personalized note to the interviewers within 24 hours, thanking them for their time and consideration. A follow-up note is an excellent way to express gratitude and reinforce your interest in the role. Some hiring committees might make decisions immediately, so don't wait to send it if this note will impact them.

In this note, reiterate your interest in the position and company. Keep it professional and concise. Reference something you discussed during the interview or highlight what stood out about the position or organization; this shows your listening skills and ability to connect.  

Make sure to avoid sending out generic or recycled messages. Instead, personalize your email for the role, company and person you interviewed. A follow-up email can be a great way to keep you on the mind of the interview team, but be sure to proofread your message before sending it to ensure that you are making the best possible impression. 

Another way to show interest in the role is to ask questions about follow-up while you are still in the interview. Phrasing questions like "When can I expect to hear back from you?" or "What are the next steps in your interview process?" reflect your enthusiasm and help establish clear expectations. These questions also allow the interviewer to share more details about the timeline. Just be careful not to ask a question they've already answered. Listen carefully, and if they've already highlighted the interview process or next steps, refrain from asking that question at the end of your interview. 

Send a follow-up email if you haven't heard back from the company within the timeline they mentioned. You can use this email to reiterate your interest in the role and to let them know you are inquiring about any updates. While the waiting process can be challenging, limit your follow-ups to avoid appearing too persistent. Limiting your follow-ups to less than once a week and no more than three times is a good rule to follow. 

Handling Rejection 

Now that the interviews are done, hopefully you have landed the job! But what do you do if you aren't lucky enough to be accepted into the first job you apply for? Or the one that follows? How do you manage the feeling of rejection if you aren't a successful candidate? 

First and foremost, remember that rejection is often part of the job search process. Even if you bring strong skills and experience, the company might have chosen someone they feel will be a better fit for their organization. It is natural to feel disappointed if you don't get the job you applied for, but try not to take rejection personally. Instead, take some time to reflect on what you learned through the process. That interview could have equipped you with valuable insights for your next opportunity. Maintain a positive outlook and continue searching for the ideal role that will help you build your career. 

A good way to learn from the experience is to ask the interviewer for feedback politely. There may have been one area that you didn't articulate well, or you may have been seeking a specific skill set, such as experience with a particular software or someone who already knew how to sell successfully and could provide examples of the revenue they have successfully generated for the business. 

Respond with professionalism if you receive a message letting you know you weren't selected. While this role might not have been a fit for you, that same hiring manager might think of you when a more appropriate role comes across their desk that might fit your skills. Keep that door of opportunity open and be courteous in your response. Be sure to express gratitude for their time and for considering you for the position. 

While we always hope to land the ideal job on the first try, that isn't always the case. Be sure to leverage your rejection as a learning opportunity. Reflect on what went well during the interview and identify areas for improvement. If you receive feedback, note any areas where you could build new skills or strengthen your knowledge, especially if you are looking for a similar role in the future. Consider connecting with your interviewers on LinkedIn and staying in touch with them as your career progresses. Connections and networking can help you along the way, and you never know when your path may cross with them in the future.  

Good luck with your career journey and interview process. The right role is out there for you. Take action—your career success is a journey, not a destination, and you don't need to be there immediately. Patience, perseverance and flexibility will be the key to your success. Explore alternative internships and job opportunities on AgCareers.com.